Book F y 



I'RKSENTliD 













/ 

/ 













































JTrutt (^rotoetfi! dissociation of 
dlliams County, ^^ennsplbanta 

Proceedings 
For The Year 1909 




Fifth Annual Convention at Bendersville 
Dec. Fifteenth, Sixteenth and Seventeenth 



THE 

Fruit Growers Association 

of Adams County 

Pennsylvania 

ORGANIZED DECEMBER 18, 1903 



PROCEEDINGS 

of the 

FIFTH ANNUAL CONVENTION 
held in 

FRUIT GROWERS HALL, BENDERSVILLE, PA. 

WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY AND FRIDAY 
DEC. 15, 16, 17, 1909 



THE AMERICAN 
AGRICULTURAL 
CHEMICAL CO. 

OF BALTIMORE, MD. 



High-Grade, Reliable 
Fertilizers for All Crops and for Permanent 
Improvement of the Soil 



117E JUSTLY CLAIM that there are 
" NO BETTER FERTILIZERS than 
ours, for they are as good as experience, 
materials of the highest agricultural value, 
unsurpassed facilities, and close and care- 
ful attention to manufacturing can make 
them. OUR FERTILIZERS ARE IN 
FINE DRILLING' ':(JONDITION, and 
are put up in GOOD, STRONG SACKS 



• » 



s 



Officers 

President, Robert M. Eldon^ Aspers 

Vice President J A. I. Weidner, Arendtsville 

Recording Secretary, jJosiah W. Prickett^ .1 Biglerville 

Corresponding Secretary, Edwin C. Tyson^ Flora Dale 

Treasurer, Wm. S. Adams^ Aspers 

Executive Committee 

Robert M. Eedon^ - Aspers 

JosiAH W. Prickett, Biglerville 

Chester J. Tyson, ., Flora Dale 

Robert Garrettson, Aspers 

Chas. a. Woi,fe, Aspers 



• 



4 







Plant, cultivate, spray and 
dig your potatoes 
with 

IRON AGE 

Machines 
IRON AGE PLANTERS 

Plants 100% perfect, no misses, no 
doubles, even spacing, perfect plac- 
ing. No injury to seed — no pick- 
ers are used. Fertilizer does not 
touch seed. 

IRON AGE RIDING CULTI- 
VATORS are adjustable for any 
width rows and to suit all condi- 
tions of crop and soil. Can culti- 
vate in rows 28 inches wide, 

IRON AGE SPRAYERS 

Protect against bugs and blight. 
Furnished with Single or Double 
Acting Pumps, Wood Wheels or 
Steel. 55 gal. Steel Tanks or 100 
gal. Wood Tanks, Thills or Com- 
bination. 

IRON AGE DIGGERS 

Harvest all your crop without 
waste. Light draft and convenient. 



Ask for 1910 complete IRON AGE 
catalog of potato machinery, garden 
tools, cultivators, horse hoes, etc. 

Manufactured by 

BATEMAN MFG. CO. 

Box 54 

GRENLOCH, N. J. 



5 

Membership Roll 



Adams, Wm. S., Aspers, Pa. 

Asper, D. C, Aspers, Pa. 

Anderson, H. W., , Stewartstown, Pa. 

Adams, Mrs. W. S., Aspers, Pa. 

Asper, Chas. F., Aspers, Pa. 

Anderson, Joseph W., Stewartstown, Pa. 

Anderson, H. M., ,New Park, Pa. 

Bream, Samuel, Biglerville, Pa. 

Bream, Dill, Bendersville, Pa. 

Bream, Wm. E., Biglerville, Pa. 

Boyer, W. W., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Black, Wm. H., ,. f. ...Flora Dale, Pa. 

Bream, H. J., Aspers, Pa. 

Baugher, H. G., Aspers, Pa. 

Bucher, John, Bendersville, Pa. 

Bender, Lee M., Martinsburg, W. Va. 

Baugher, Martin, Aspers, Pa. 

Baugher, Ira, Aspers, Pa. 

Boyer, Martin, Biglerville, Pa. 

Belt, J. E., Wellsville, Pa. 

Butt, J. L., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Bosler, Frank C., CarHsle, Pa. 

Brough, Edward, Biglerville, Pa. 

Busey, Rev. B. P. S., Bendersville, Pa. 

Bassett, Charles E., Fennville, Mich. 

Batterman, D. F., Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Boyer, George E., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Cocklin, Miss Alice, Bowmansdale, Pa. 

Cook, Arthur E., Aspers, Pa. 

Cox, U. T., Proctorsville, O. 

Crawford, John B., Fayetteville, Pa. 

Cushman, G. R., Baltimore, Md. 

Cluck, J. C, Biglerville, Pa. 

Cocklin, J. A., Siddonsburg, Pa. 

Cocklin, B. F., Mechanicsburg, R. F. D. 2, Pa. 

Cook, J. W., ■ Flora Dale, Pa. 

Deardorf, Anthony, Mummasburg, Pa. 

Dull, Thomas, Aspers, Pa. 

Dunlap, James M., Walnut Bottom, Pa. 

Deardorff, J. A., Cashtowm, Pa. 

Day, T. F., Aspers, Pa. 

Dunlap, F. S., Newville, Pa. 

Eldon, Robert M., Aspers, Pa. 

Engle, E. B., Harrisburg, Pa. 

Eldon, Miss Margaret, Aspers, Pa. 

Eppleman, John, Jr., Aspers, Pa. 



6 



BIGLERVILLE 

WAREHOUSE 

COMPANY 



COAL 

GRAIN 

SEEDS 

LUMBER 

FERTILIZERS 



Specialties : 

LUMBER for all purposes 
MILLWORK of every description 

Local and Long Distance Phone. All inquiries promptly answered 

G. W. KOSER, Prop'r. 

Biglerville ::: Pennsylvania 



7 

Finnefrock, Thomas, Bendersville, Pa. 

Fohl, George, Biglerville, Pa. 

Fiddler, F. B., Aspers, Pa. 

Forney, D. J., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Griest, C. Arthur, Guernsey, Pa. 

Griest, C. S., Guernsey, Pa. 

Garrettson, J. V., Aspers, Pa. 

Garrettson, Frank, Aspers, Pa. 

Garrettson, Eli P., Biglerville, Pa. 

Grove, W. E., York Springs, Pa. 

Garrettson, J. B., Aspers, Pa. 

Garrettson, Robert, Aspers, Pa. 

Garrettson, John, , Aspers, Pa. 

Griest, A. W., Baltimore, Md. 

Gardner, L. M., Jr., York Springs, Pa. 

Griest, Frederic E., Philadelphia, Pa. 

Griest, Mrs. C. A., i Guernsey, Pa. 

Gochnauer, J. D., York Springs R. F. D., Pa. 

Garrettson, Harriet, Biglerville, Pa. 

Gracey, Robert, Nev^ville, Pa. 

Gove, Mary E., , Bendersville, Pa. 

Garrettson, Eli, Gettysburg, R. F. D. 6, Pa. 

Haskell, H. F., Uriah, Pa. 

Hoffman, W. C., Biglerville, Pa. 

Ploffman, E. N., Biglerville, Pa. 

Hiester, Gabriel, Harrisburg, Pa. 

Heyser, Wm., Jack's Mountain, Pa. 

Harrison, Orlando, Berlin, Md. 

House, O. P., Aspers, Pa. 

Harris, Edwin, Aspers, Pa. 

Hoffman, Clarence, Biglerville, Pa. 

Hoffman, George, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Hoffman, Willis, Biglerville, Pa. 

Harshman, U. W., Waynesboro, Pa. 

Hoke, David, Hanover, Pa. 

Huber, Charles H., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Keller, H. M., Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Klinefelter, U. S., Biglerville, Pa. 

Kane, J. A., Biglerville, Pa. 

Knouse, J. A., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Knouse, David, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Koser, Rev. D. T., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Longsdorf, C. L., Biglerville, Pa. 

Lawver, Rufus W., Biglerville, Pa. 

Longsdorf, Dr. H. H., Dickinson, Pa. 

Low^er, Reuben, Biglerville, Pa. 

Lady, Hiram C, Arendtsville, Pa. 



Michener, Chas., . 
Myers, George P., 



Guernsey, Pa. 
Biglerville, Pa. 



8 



GOULDS RELIABLE 

SPRAYERS 





THE experienced Fruit Grower 
is the man who realizes the 
importance of using only high 
class sprayers. He knows that 
spraying is what you make it — a 
hard job or an easy proposition de- 
pending on the outfit. Most Grow- 
ers have learned it doesn't pay to 
bother with cheap ones. Goulds 
Sprayers have a reputation to maintain, 
they comprise- a line of over 25 styles — 
for both Hand and Power — all simple 
— all working parts brass to withstand 
wear, and the chemical action of the 
solutions. Don't be caught experiment- 
ing with a cheap sprayer — see that the 
name Goulds is cast on the Pump. Its 
presence is the assurance you are buying 
the very best Sprayer made. It guar- 
antees satisfaction and reliability. Write 
for our book ^'HOW TO SPRAY- 
WHEN TO SPRAY — WHAT 
SPRAYER TO USE." It is full of 
interesting information and contains 
many valuable formulas for spray mix- 
tures. Copy sent free on request. 

THE GOULDS 
MANUFACTURING CO. 

SENECA FALLS, N. Y. 

We Build Pumps for Every Service 



9 



Mcllhenny, Wm. B., 


















McClean, Wm. Arch., 


Gettysburg, Pa. 




Mayer, Dr. I. H., 


Willow Street, Pa. 










Michener, Mrs. Chas., 


Guernsey, Pa. 




Morrison, Mrs. W. S., 












Miller, John H., 






Minnich, D. N., 






Miller, N. G., 






Minter, Thomas h., 


















Minter, D. G., 


Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 


^, Pa. 














Newcomer, Aaron, 


Smithsburg, Md. 




Newcomer, J. M., 


Waynesboro, Pa. 












Gettysburg R. F. D. No. 


5, Pa. 


Ogden, David, 






Orner P S, 






Oyler, George C., 


.Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 














Peters, Earl, 


Mt. Holly Springs, Pa. 




Peters, W. R., 


Aspers, Pa. 










Patterson, Tas. A., 


Stewartstown, Pa. 










Peters, Curtis 


Biglerville, Pa. 




Prickett, Mrs. E. M. G., 


Biglerville, Pa. 




Peters John N 


oBender.sville, Pa. 










Rice, E. E., 














Bender.sville, Pa. 




Rice, C. E., 


Biglerville, Pa. 




Rice, C. S., 


Arendtsville, Pa. 










Rinehart, E. S., 


jMercersburs", Pa. 








5, Pa. 


Kittennouse, JJr. J. b., 


Lorane, Pa. 






Smithsburg, Md. 










Sandoe, H. P., 


Biglerville, Pa. 




Satterthwaite, A. F., 


Harrisburg, Pa. 











10 



STICKS LIKE PAINT 



IT WON'T M ASH OFF 



66 



Pyrox 



99 



The One Universally Valuable 
Double- Purpose Spray 



non-burning Bordeaux Mixture in a non-burning 
mixture that does the work thoroughly and brings 
handsome results at harvest. 



Mr. N. Bassett, Pawlet, Rutland Co., Vt., writes: "I have used Pyrox for two years with 
great success. I sent loo barrels of my apples to New York commission merchants and they 
netted me $4 per barrel. One of my neighbors sent 10 barrels from his orchard in the same 
car. He received only $2 per barrel for his. This shows the difference between apples sprayed 
with Pyrox and those that were not taken care of, as he did not spray his trees." 



Mr. Joshua F. Crowell, West Yarmouth, Barnstable Co., Mass., writes: "I used Pyrox 
very successfully last season on apple and pear trees for fungous diseases and had a fine yield 
of good solid fruit, especially apples, which are in fine hard condition at the present time 
(February 12th) and keeping better than ever before. I also used Pyrox judiciously on straw- 
berries, raspberries, grapes, plum trees, melons, squashes, cucumbers, beans and tomatoes, and 
also found it very effective on astors and nicotiana. In seasons before I have used it on elm 
and other shade trees with excellent results. I find it a safe, convenient and thorough 
insecticide and fungicide for fruit and for the family garden." 



BOWKER INSECTICIDE COMPANY 



Kills Insects 
Prevents Disease 



Combines non-burning Arsenate of Lead with 



Pyrox Doubled the Value of Apples 



Valuable on all Crops 



It will PA Y YO U to get in touch with ''Pyrox'' 



43 CHATHAM ST., BOSTON, MASS. 



II 



Stover, Dr. J. G., Bendcrsvillc, Pa. 

Stover, Mrs. J. G., Benclersville, Pa. 

Slaybaiigh, E. B., Aspers, Pa. 

Slaybaugh, Elmer, Aspers, Pa. 

Smith, G. Frank, Aspers, Pa. 

Shank, C. G., Biglerville, Pa. 

Smith, J. H., Biglerville, Pa. 

Sheely, Mrs. Angelina, Aspers, Pa. 

Schlosser, Ira, Aspers, Pa. 

Shull, Jno. A., Tilhe, Pa. 

Shull, Robt. H., Tillie, Pa. 

Stoner, C. A., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Schuchman, G. W., Carlisle, Pa. 

Sterrett, D. Kerr, Oakville, Pa. 

Sharpe, James A., Shippensburg, R. F. D. 2, Pa. 

Stable, Charles E., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Spangler, George E., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Sheely, Allen, Bendersville, Pa. 

Stewart, Prof. J. P., .State College, Pa. 

Snyder, Jacob S., Idaville, R. F. D., Pa. 

Shank, George H., Biglerville, Pa. 

Tyson, Edwin C, Flora Dale, Pa. 

Tyson, Chester J., Flora Dale, Pa. 

Tyson, Wm. C, Guernsey, Pa. 

Taylor, I. P., Biglerville, Pa. 

Tyson, Mrs. B. H., Aspers, Pa. 

Tyson, Mrs. M. W., Flora Dale, Pa. 

Tyson, Mrs. M. E., Guernsey, Pa. 

Taylor, H. W., Biglerville, Pa. 

Taylor, Henry, Biglerville, Pa. 

Trostle, Francis, York Springs, R. F. D., Pa. 

Weidner, A. I., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Wolfe, C. A., Aspers, Pa. 

Weaver, Mrs. C. M., New Oxford, Pa. 

Wilson, B. F., Biglerville, Pa. 

Weaner, Chas. C, Bendersville, Pa. 

Wert, R. S., Biglerville, Pa. 

Wertz, D. M., Quincy, Pa. 

Weidner, Geo., Aspers, Pa. 

Wolfe, Harry, Aspers, Pa. 

Wible, R. E., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Wickersham, Ruth A., Bendersville, Pa. 

Wagner, Harry, Carlisle, Pa. 

Woodbourne, D. Sterrett, Shippensburg, Pa. 

Woodbourne, John S., Newville, Pa. 

Weaner, W. C, Aspers, Pa. 

Wright, Ryland, Aspers, Pa. 

Weigle, H. M., Harrisburg, Pa. 

Wisotzkey, J. M., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Wolf, Charles M., York Springs. Pa. 

Williams, J. h., Gettysburg, Pa. 



12 



Atlantic Fertilizer Company 

Of BALTIMORE, MD. 
Mannfartiirf^rs and Importers 



ATLANTIC 

"Apple Grower" 
200 lbs. 

Guaranteed Minimum 
Analysis 

Ammonia, - 2 % 
Av. Phos. Acid, 8% 
Actual Potash, 10% 

For Sale by 

G. W. KOSER 

Biglerville, Pa. 



Our Goods Are Recognized as 

"Fertilizers of Quality" 

and have given universal satisfaction 

Sold by 

G. W. KOSER 

Biglerville, Pa. 



Uur 

Fertilizers 

Are Guaranteed 

qA PURE PLANT FOOD 

in Fine Drilling Condition and Sci- 
entifically Compounded will Give 
the best results when properly 
applied on Orchards. 



13 



CONSTITUTION 

Preamble. 

Being interested in fruit growing and believing that, by organization, we 
may materially advance our common interests, we hereby adopt the following 
Constitution and B3^-Laws : 

Article I. — Name. 

This Association shall be known as The Fruit Growers' Association of 
Adams County. 

Article 11— Object. 

The object of this Association shall be to encourage the co-operation ol 
the fruit growers of Adams County for the protection and advancement of 
their common interests. 

1st. By securing and disseminating such scientific and practical informa- 
tion as shall promote the general advancement of the fruit growing interests 
in this county, and shall tend to the improvement of the quality and quantity 
of our products. 

2d. By securing such legislation as may be advantageous, and prevent- 
ing that which may be detrimental. 

3d. By securing such improved facilities in transportation as shall tend 
to give us more expeditious and economical distribution. 

4th. By endeavoring to secure a better and more uniform sj'stem of 
packing and package. 

Sth. By devising some system of marketing our products which will open 
up and develop the markets and give to the grower a fair and remunera- 
tive return, 

6th. And by endeavoring to obtain such improved systems of crop report- 
ing as shall furnish, through co-operation with other similar Associations, ac- 
curate information concerning production ; thereby enabling the fruit grower 
to know the exact situation. 

Article lll.—Mevihership. 

1st. Candidates for membership may be elected by a majority vote of 
the members present, and upon the pa3'ment of $1.00 into the treasury .shall 
be entitled to membership until the next Annual IMeeting. 

2d. Any member may renew his membership by the payment of annual 
dues, but upon failure to pay dues within three months after Annual ]\Ieet- 
ing, shall require re-election. 

3d. No member shall receive the benefit of commissions or of co-oper- 
ative buying by the Association, to an amount greater than $1.00 for the term 
of one year after election to membership. 

Article IV. — Dues. 
The annual dues of this Association shall be One Dollar ($1.00) pay- 
able to the treasurer at the meeting immediately preceding the annual meet- 
ing, for which the treasurer shall issue a receipt, this receipt to constitute 
a certificate of membership for the succeeding year. 

Article Y.— Officers. 
Its officers shall consist of a President, one Vice President, a Recording 
Secretary, a Corresponding Secretary, a Treasurer, and an Executive Com- 
mittee of five (5) members, consisting of the President, Recording Secretary 
and three others, all of whom shall be elected by ballot at each annual meet- 
ing for the term of one year or until their successors shall be chosen. 

Article VI. — Quorum. 
Five (5) members shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of 
business. 

Article VU.— Amend luoifs. 

The Constitution and By-Laws of this Association may be amended at 
. any regular meeting by a two-thirds vote of the members present, a notice of 
the proposed amendment having b^en presented in writing at a previous 
regular meeting. 



14 



GRASSELLFS 

SPRAYING PRODUCTS 




FOR THE CONTROL OF 



( The Codling Moth ) ( The Potato Beetle ) 

USE 

GRASSELLFS ARSENATE OF LEAD- 
PASTE AND POWDERED 

FOR FUNGOUS DISEASES 

USE 

GRASSELLFS BORDEAUX MIXTURE 
-PASTE AND POWDERED 

FOR THE CONTROL OF BOTH IN 1 OPERATION 

USE 

GRASSELLrS BORDEAUX-LEAD 
ARSENATE MIXTURE- PASTE 
AND POWDERED 



To Kill 
The 
San Jose 
Scale 




Use 

Grass elli's 
Concentrated 
Lime- 
Sulphur 
Solution 



The San Jose Scale 



WRITE FOR QUOTATIONS TO 

THE GRASSELLI CHEMICAL CO. OF PENNA. 

PHILADELPHIA OFFICE PITTSBURGH OFFICE 
2143 North American St. 811 Bessemer Building 
^ Or E. C. TYSON. Flora Dale, Pa. 



15 



BY-LAWS 

Article I. — Duties of President. 

The President shall preside at all meetings of the Association and have 
a general supervision of its affairs. 

Article II. — Duties of Vice President. 

The Vice President shall preside at any meeting in the absence of the 
President, and may act on the Executive Committee in case of the Presi- 
dent's absence. 

Article III. — Duties of Recording Secretary. 

The Recording Secretary shall write the minutes of the meetings of the 
Association and have charge of its Records and Reports. 

Article IV. — Duties of Corresponding Secretary. 

The Corresponding Secretary shall conduct the correspondence of the 
Association and shall receive for so doing his necessary expenses for sta- 
tionery, postage, etc. He shall also act as Recording Secretary in the ab- 
sence of that officer. 

Article V. — Duties of Treasurer. 

The Treasurer shall receive and keep an accurate account of all moneys 
belonging to the Association, paying out same on an order of the Associa- 
tion, signed by the President. He shall make a report of all receipts and 
disbursements at the annual meeting or at any time at the request of the 
Association. He shall mail a notice of dues to all members one week prior 
to the November meeting, at which time all dues are payable, and shall issue 
certificates of membership in exchange for all dues received. He shall also 
keep a roll of members who have complied with Article IV. of the Constitu- 
tion and embody same in his annual report. 

Article VI. — Duties of the Executive Committee. 

The Executive Committee shall have general supervision of the affairs 
of the Association, auditing all bills and accounts and carrying out the 
purposes of the Association. They shall also prepare a program for each 
meeting, same to be announced at the. preceding meeting. 

Article VII. — Meetings. 

There shall be a regular meeting of the Association on the second 
Saturday of each month at 7:30 p. m., unless otherwise ordered. The meet- 
ing held in December to be regarded as the Annual Meeting. Special meet- 
ings may be convened by the Executive Committee at such time as they 
may appoint. 

Article VJll.— Initiation of Officers. 

All new officers shall assume the duties of office at the opening of the 
meeting immediately following the one at which they were elected. Except 
that the newly appointed Executive Committee shall prepare and announce 
at the January meeting the program for the February meeting. 

Article IX. — Order of Business. 

1st. Reading of minutes of previous nieeting. 

2d. Nominations and elections. 

3d. Reports of committees. 

4th.. Deferred business. 

5th. Communications. 

6th. New business. 

7th. Discussion of questions. 



i6 



INTELLIGENT SPRAYING 

The Rural New Yorker stated editorially, Sept. 19th 1908:— "The 
Rural Grounds now appear to be free from scale for the first time in 12 
years, ^i. It has been a long fight, excessively discouraging until the 
soluble oils came to the rescue three years ago. The prospect brightened 
at the first , trial of these handy preparations, and repeated use seems to 
have resulted in victory." Spraying was omitted this year. 

"SCALECIDE" 

alone did more in three years than Lime-Sulphur and other "dopes" di 
in nine. Are you still in the Lime-Sulphur ranks 

Send for Booklet ''''Orchard Insurance.'''' 

If you want cheap oils, our "CARBOLEINE" at 30c. per gallon is the 
equal of anything else. 

"I HAVE SO LITTLE FUNGUS 

that I cannot afford to mark my fruit with Bordeaux," says Mr. Geo T. 
Powell of Ghent, N. Y., a grower of fancy apples. "I have less scale 
and finer foliage than ever before." REASON: Five years consecutive use 
of Scalecide. 

PRICES : 

50 gal. bbL $25, 30 gal. tin $15, 10 gal. can $6, 5 gal. can $3.25, 1 gal. 
can $1. F. O. B. New York or Guernsey, Pa., cash with 
order. Freight paid on cash orders for 50 gals, and 
over to one address. 

Three gallons added to water makes a barrel of spray. 

"SULFOCIDE" 

Soluble Sulphur Summer Spray. 
A new Substitute for Bordeaux Mixture 

Far surpassing it in effectiveness, durability and ease of application, at 
one-half the cost or less. 

The most powerful, non-poisonous fungicide for plant life — for rust, 
mildew, scab, canker, brown rot, etc. 

MADE ONLY BY 

B. G. PRATT COMPANY 

Mfg. Chemists, New York City. 

EDWIN C. TYSON, Penna. Sales Agent 
Wholesale Orchard Tools and Supplies. 

FLORA DALE, PA. 



PROCEEDINGS 

OF THE 

FIFTH ANNUAL CONVENTION 

OF THE 

FRUIT GROWERS ASSOCIATION 

OF 

ADAMS COUNTY, PA. 



The Fifth Annual Convention of the Fruit Growers' Associa- 
tion of Adams County was called to order by Chester J. Tyson, act- 
ing chairman, at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 15, 1909, in 
Fruit Growers' Hall, Bendersville, Pa. 

The convention was opened with prayer by the Rev. B. P. S. 
Busey. 

Mr. Tyson. I regret very much to announce that our Presi- 
dent, Mr. Eldon, is prevented from attending the opening session 
by a very severe cold. We hope to have him with us later and his 
annual address will appear in our ''Proceedings" just as if he were 
here. 



PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS. 



ROBERT M. EI.DON. 



The announcement of the Fruit Growers' Association of Adams 
County states that this is to be the fifth annual convention. If 
habits are fixed by the repetition of actions, I have a notion that we 
are acquiring the convention habit. However, we are not pioneers in 
this respect. The newspapers are full of the announcements of con- 
ventions of all kinds. 

Before our ancestors became individually independent, and ver- 
itable ambidexterous jacks of all trades, they belonged to some cor- 
poration, following from father to son and grandson some definite 
occupation or trade. A man was born, lived and died a carpenter, a 
weaver, or a mason. And now after a period of strenuous activity 
as individuals, we are swinging back towards that former way. 
Not to follow our father's trade, but to follow one trade. We do 
not expect to lose the desire or right to choose what we shall do, but 



17 



i8 

having chosen one thing, will probably merge ourselves as individ- 
uals into the mass of those who do that thing; will be willing to 
sacrifice part of our individual independence for the sake of the in- 
fluence of the mass. 

As individuals we recognize the fact that we are not suflicient 
of ourselves. That only in combination are we able to meet the de- 
mands made upon us in the business of growing fruit. No one man 
has time to investigate all its phases. No one man is able to inves- 
tigate them all. The men who come here as instructors or lecturers 
are brought here because they have investigated but one part of the 
subject, and they are careful to sa)^ that many of their deductions 
have not been certainly established or proven. 

In a discussion of the subject matter of what is now the Lafean 
Bill in Washington last winter, two of our members represented the 
Pennsylvania State Horticultural Society and the Fruit Growers' 
Association of Adams County. The discussion had not progressed 
very far when.it became evident that very divergent views were held 
by the delegates from the different parts of the country represented 
at the conference. Generally speaking, the very Far West in one 
camp, and the East and the JMiddle West in the other. 

The Far West satisfied with present conditions and insisting 
that if change were to be made, and packing and packages standard- 
ized and legalized, that the methods of packing the crop of the coast 
states, California, Oregon and Washington, were the best in exist- 
ence, and that their packages should be adopted as standard. They 
want their present apple boxes standardized as bushel boxes, al- 
though they hold but 2,150 cubic inches, or the volume of the Win- 
chester bushel. The Winchester bushel is our stricken measure and 
would not be accepted in the East as the measure of a bushel of 
produce, such as apples or potatoes or other vegetables. W e couldn't 
sell our crops were they measured in that way, and were we the 
purchasers we wouldn't take that kind of measure. 

The Winchester bushel measured level full is naturally the meas- 
ure of small grain, which is now almost universally weighed, and 
which could not be conveniently handled if heaped in a measure. 
Why should the Winchester bushel be the standard measure for ap- 
ples in boxes ? Because it is the same in capacity as the Western apple- 
box, and the delegate from Washington says that our box suits us; 
we have been using it and we intend to keep on using it. In like 
manner, and in the same vein, while the conference was discussing 
the capacity for a barrel: "We don't care Avhat is the capacity of a 
barrel, we do not use barrels for our fruit." 

The Eafean Bill proposes to make the standard barrel for apples 
the same as the New York barrel, a package of certain stated dimen- 
sions and holding 7,026 cubic inches. As it is the practice in many 
sections to call a barrel of apples three bushels, it was finally decided 
in the convention, the delegate from Washington always and all the 
time dissenting, to recommend one-third of the capacity of the stand- 
ard barrel as the capacity of the standard bushel box, namely, 2,342 
cubic inches. This was distinctly in a spirit of compromise, as many 
of the delegates w^ere in favor of a larger package, even as large as 
2,550 cubic inches. 

It seems to me that there would be gain rather than loss in 



19 



making a bushel to hold as much as 2,550 cubic inches, a generous 
heaping of the measure makes a pleased customer whether he be the 
retailer or the consumer. Part of the price of our fruit is to be 
spent in advertising at any rate and it is better to give this part to 
the purchaser of our fruits than to invest it in the public prints, and 
it is better advertising, too. 

An important section of the Lafean Bill requires that the name 
of the grower, his address, and the name of the packer shall be put 
on the package, and that if the box or barrel is repacked, the person 
who repacks the fruit shall substitute his name for that of the origi- 
nal packer. Thus, if contents of package are not as represented, the 
person responsible can be readily ascertained. 

Poor packing is such short-sighted policy, that nothing in the 
way of legislation ought to be necessary to correct it; but there are 
in the fruit-growing- business, as in everv^ other business, persons 
who are natural cheats, and legislation is as necessary to suppress 
them as to protect the honest grower. The aim of this section is also 
to protect the buyer of closed packages, as it is impossible to open 
CA'ery package of fruit every time it changes ownership. 

I think it is good practice to give a well-heaped measure, and 
I would not want to indorse any bill that has as one of its features 
the restriction of the size of the measure. Give good measure and 
good fruit and you have a satisfied customer; one Avho will come 
back. You cannot lose him if you wanted to. He will take time and 
trouble to find you. AMiat is more, he will tell his friends of your 
good fruit, your well-filled package, good down to the bottom. 

^Ir. Lafean has been criticised as a man w^ho knows nothing 
about apples. It was claimed that ^Ir. Porter knew nothing about 
the Porter Bill. Congress is not composed of experts in all subjects 
and we do not expect any member to know all about apples. Some 
representative body must legislate. AVe cannot wait for experts. I 
think the bill should receive our hearty support. Xo one thinks the 
present bill is perfect, but all legislation begins in imperfection. It 
must first be passed, then tried, and if necessary be remodeled. Fi- 
nally it will be found to reach the end desired, and to accomplish the 
desired result. 

One characteristic of the Association is the good fellowship 
existing among its members, and I believe that the}- try to extend it 
to the stranger. AA'e try to make him one of us. Several times at 
least Ave have been able to have a man repeat his visit. I extend 
the welcome of the society to all who are with us or coming to later 
sessions. AA'e expect to enjoy your presence. have had a num- 

ber of visitors and we have yet to hear the unfriendly or unkind 
word. 

A pleasing incident of the apple harvest time was the visit to 
the Adams County orchards of a part of the Horticultural section of 
the School of Agriculture of the Pennsylvania State College. About 
twenty students accompanied by Professors Ralph L. ^^'atts and W. 
T. Wright of the Department of Horticulture. This visit was good 
for us and I am as certainly sure that it was good for the yoimg 
men. Professor AA'atts is a ratthng good instructor and kept the 
wits of his boys constantly on the jump to observe the difirerent 
phases of the fruit-growing business as they presented themselves. 



20 



They spent two days in the orchards and the included evening in 
the Hall at Bendersville. When leaving us at McKnightstown, all 
declared themselves as having had a good time from all points of 
view. I believe that those of our membership who made the trip 
were equally repaid. It was good advertising and our business needs 
that as much as does any other. 

Our apple crop was the usual full year crop. Entire returns are 
not at hand, but what we have would indicate that the crop was 
somewhat heavier than that of 1907. Its quality was superior also 
to- that of the 1907 crop. During May much apprehension was felt 
for the crop on account of the cold weather, and there is no doubt 
that there was a considerable injury to the blossoms. On the trip 
through the county at picking time many trees were observed that 
bore fruit only on the south and southeast sides, showing very con- 
clusively that the opposite or stormward side had been injured, 
the fruit-bearing side having been saved by the protection which 
the branches and leaves afforded. The apples were very highly 
colored. The buyer of the bulk of the crop declared they were the 
handsomest east of the Mississippi. Many of the plantings which 
have been made since it was discovered that our county was good for 
apples are now approaching bearing age, so that the returns of the 
near future are expected to show a large increase of fruit. 

Some of our growers report unexpected outbreaks of scale, 
which they attribute not so much to the agent used to kill the scale, 
as to the impossibility of doing a good spraying job in the windy 
spraying season. These reports come mostly from those who have 
done most of their spraying in the spring. Spraying for codling 
moth seemed to be more uniformly successful. Taking it as a whole 
I think we are making satisfactory progress in the use of spray 
materials. The remedies themselves seem to be too prominent in the 
list of orchard charges, but perhaps in the near future with the in- 
creasing demand that our growing orchards will create, some one 
may be induced to erect in our midst a plant for the manufacture of 
spray material. 

We believe that this convention will be better than our former 
good ones. Our instructors have been selected with the usual care 
and we expect them to be as good as those of other years, plus the 
added year. I need not take the time to set out their good points. 
A glance at the program will be all that is necessary, to excite your 
attention and interest. After that the various instructors will speak 
for themselves. 

Dessert follows the meat. After the serious business of the day 
we offer you a lighter character of pleasurable entertainment for the 
evenings. A combination of work and play that will leave you at the 
conclusion of these meetings in a state of satisfaction ; at peace with 
yourselves and with us. Perhaps if you are not already a member 
you will have a firm determination to become one at the first oppor- 
tunity. We expect to greatly increase our membership during this 
week, and opportunity to join us will be freely given. A pleasant 
thing about the membership of this Association is, that having once 
embraced its privileges and duties, members seldom quit. Mem- 
bership is not expensive, and our meetings are as necessary to our 
members as is a clearing house to a chain of banks. 



21 

Mr. Tyson. In Mr. Eldon's place I desire to welcome all who 
have come to our convention, whether members or not, and to in- 
vite your active participation in the proceedings. I want you to feel 
free to ask questions and to enter into the discussions at any time 
during the meetings. 

Three years ago, Dr. Hunt, then a new director of our Exper- 
iment Station at State College, requested this Association to ap- 
point a delegation to meet with other delegates at the annual meeting 
of the State Horticultural Association at Harrisburg, to designate 
what line of work the fruit growing and horticultural interests in 
general would like to 'have carried out by the Experiment Station. 
At that conference it was suggested that the Station undertake ex- 
periments on Orchard Fertilization with respect to its effect on the 
yield and quality of the fruit. Prof. J. P. Stewart, of the Experi- 
ment Station, was at once put in charge of this work and has fol- 
lowed it continuously ever since. Prof. Stewart is with us and will 
address you on his results to date. 



ORCHARD FERTILIZATION.' 



Proi^. J. P. Sti^wart, Department of Bxperimental Horticulture, 
School of Agriculture, Pennsylvania State College, 
State College, Pa. 



The problem of successful orchardino^ is to secure and main- 
tain a balanced treatment. Many factors are involved, — moisture, 
plant food, light, protection (from enemies, frost and disease), cor- 
rect varieties and location, and correct business management. None 
can be neglected without danger of loss, and it is the weakest factor 
that limits the crop. The limiters, therefore, must be found and cor- 
rected. Money and energy spent on factors already relatively 
strong are likely to be wasted, while on the other hand, the weak 
factors will respond to care. Hence, the finding and lifting of lim- 
iting factors, coupled with the maintenance thereafter of a balanced 
orchard treatment, is the correct policy and the keynote to success. 

You are already acquainted with the scope and general char- 
acter of our experiments along this line. But I would recall the 
facts that we have under experiment in various parts of the state 
91 acres of orchard, 4g of which (including 2,219 trees) are in par- 
tial or full bearing. The yields from these experimental orchards 
in 1908 were somewhat over 164,000 pounds of fruit, and in 1909, 
the third year, they were 256,000 pounds. The data for the tables 
and conclusions which follow, therefore, cover a period of three 
years and are derived from something over 420,000 pounds of 
fruit. The exact locations, soil types and varieties involved are 
shown in Table I. 



^Abstract of address given at meeting of Adams County Fruit Growers' 
Association, DecemlDer 15, igog. 



22 



TABLE I. 



Location, Soil, and Other Data on Experiments Away from the 

College. 



Expt. 
No. 


County 


Owner 
of Orchard 


Soil 


Varieties 


Age 
1909 


No. of 
Trees 


215 


Adams 


Tyson Bros. 


Porter's Loam 


York Imperial and 
Stayman Winesap 


Yr. 

10 


160 


216 


Franklin 


D. M. Wertz 


Mont Alto 
Fine Sandy Loam* 


York Imperial and 
'Jonathan 


10 


160 


220 


Bedford 


Mrs. S. B. Brown 


DeKalb 
Stony Loam* 


York Imperial and 
Baldwin 


ir & 21 


160 
















217 


Franklin 


J. H. Ledy 


Mont Alto Loam* 


York Imperial and 
Gano 


16 


358 


218 


Franklin 


J. A. Nicodemus 


Hagerstown 
Clay Loam* 


York Imperial and 
Albemarle 


10 & 14 


4C0 


219 


Bedford 


J. R. Sleek 


DeKalb 
Shale Loam* 


York Imp., Jonathan 
Ben Davis and Gano 


7 


320 
















221 


Wyoming 


F. H. Fassett 


Fine Sandy Loamf 


Northern Spy and 
Baldwin 


37 


115 
















336 


Chester 


A. D. Strode 


Chester Loam 


Grimes, Smokehouse 
and Stayman Winesap 


7-9 


120 105$ 


S37§ 


Mercer 


"St. Paul's 
Orphans' Home 


Volusia 
Silt Loam* 


Northern Spy, 
Baldwin and Rome 


2 


18Q&180 


338 


Lawrence 


J. B. Johnston 


Volusia 
Silt Loam* 


Baldwin 


21 


80 & ICS 


339 


Bradford 


F. T. Mynard 


Upshur Loam* 


Baldwin 
and Fallawater 


15 


120 & I 



The first three experiments, 215, 216 and 220, comprise what 
we call our straight fertilizer experiments ; the next four are ex- 
periments on cultural methods, with and without manures ; and the 
last four are a combination of fertilizer and cultural methods ex- 
periments. Each of the fertilizer experiments contains sixteen plots 
of ten trees each. The treatments are shown in Table IL The 
symbols N. P and K refer to nitrogen, phosphates and potash ; and 
they are applied at the rates of 50 lb. N., 100 lb. PoOg and 150 lb. 
KoO per acre in all cases. Plots 5 and 6 compare the muriate and 
sulphate as a carrier of potash. Plots 11 and 12 compare acid phos- 
phate and "floats" as a carrier of phosphoric acid (phosphorus 
pentoxid, more correctly). The manure is applied at the rate of 
12 tons per acre and the hme at 1,000 lb. per acre. All applications 
are made annually. 

The combined results to date of the first three experiments are 
shown in Table IL 



Soils un-mapped as yet, but probably closest to the types indicated accord- 
ing to the observations of C. F. Shaw and H. J. Wilder. 

fThis soil has received no series name but it is one that has been deposited 
in a lake bed formed -by the tem'porary stoppage of the Susquehanna in 
cutting through the .mountains. 

tin the two sets of figures in this and the following experiments, the first 
gives the number of trees under fertilizer treatment, the second those under 
differing cultural methods. In experiments 339, the latter includes only a 
sod mulch plot. 

§ Trees set out in connection with these experiments, hence, not yet in 
bearing. 



23 

TABLE II. 

Influence of Fertilizers on Yield, Color and Growth. 



Epts. 215, 216, 220. 



Plot. 1 


Treatment. 


Yields 1908-9. 
Lb. 


Per cent. Benefit. 


Yields 1909 
Third Yr. Lb. 


1 

Per cent. Benefit. 


Per ct. of apples 
colored }i or 
more.i 1908-9. 


Per cent. Benefit. 


Ave. increase per 
tree in trunk 
girth, in inches, 
1907-9. 


Per cent. Benefit. 


I 


I 

Check 


4643 1 




1306 




69.2 






3.29h- 




2 


N P 


6887 


*78.i 


1770 


51-2 


47.9 


— 22 


5 


3.54 . 


■8'.9 


3 


N K 


5653 


82.8 


1409 


36.4 


57. 


—14 


5 


3-63 


19. 1 


4 


Check 


2313 




897 




72.7 






3.18 




5 


P K 




62.5 


1441 


56'. 5 


69.8 


I 


7 


3-34 


'3:8 


6 


PK2SO4 


2772, 


32. 


1664 


76.3 


67.2 


3 


6 


3-43— 


5.1 


7 


Check 


1998 




1067 




59. 






3-29 




8 


N P K 


3847 


67*4 


1561 


31-3 


41 .6 


— 20 


3 


3-97— 


l8'.2 


9 


N 


4709 


81.2 


2675 


104.2 


43-8 


— ^21 


I 


4.08 


19.4 


10 


Check 


2898 




1431 




67.8 






3.48 




II 


Acid P. 


2833 


6'. 26 


2126 


52.2 


69-3 


3 


3 


3-49— 


—1.7 


12 


Raw P. 


1548 


-36.6 


1073 


—21.3 


75-3 


II 




3-29 


-8.9 


13 


Check 


2209 




1327 




62.5 






3-68 




14 


Manure 


4793 


138^3 


3423 


178:5 


56.0 


— 9 


I 


4.30 


21 .6 


15 


lyime 


1538 1 


—21.7 


895 


— 21 . 


66.7 




9 


3-73 


9.6 


16 


Check 


1843 




1034 




70.2 






3.26 





Striking things shown here are the strong beneficial effect of 
manure and of nitrogen on yield and growth, with an accompany- 
ing harmful influence on color. Plots 6 and 11 show surprising 
gains in the yields of the third year. Raw phosphate and lime 
continue to show deficits in every way except in color for the former 
and in growth for the latter. We can hardly see any reason for 
this harmful effect in the case of the ''floats" and suspect that it is 
due to some temporary condition which will disappear later. The 
same may be true of the lime effect, though the reports of "Lime 
poisoning" made by Dr. Headdon in Colorado Bulletin 131 are 
worthy of consideration in this connection. It is also worthy of note 
that the plots which have made the best yield have also made the 
best growth, thus showing that reasonable amounts of yield and 
growth are not antagonistic but rather are associated. 

A puzzling condition appears in the fact that wherever nitro- 
gen has been applied in combination with other elements, the benefit 
decreases in a third year, while in plot 9 where it was applied alone 
the benefit in the third year increases distinctl3^ This is partly 
explainable in the larger yields of the former plots last year, thus 
bringing them more strongly under the operation of the biennial 
bearing habit. 

^In all these tables, the effects on color and size of the frnit were obtained 
from random samples, taken from the fruit of each tree as it was weighed, 
the aggregate sample from each plot amounting tisually to one or two 
bushels. 



24 



Also the difference in yield between 8 and 9 may be traced 
directly to a deficit of at least 1,000 lb. that occurred this year in 
plot 8 of Experiment 220. This deficit was not due to the absence 
of apples on the trees. On the contrary an excessive number of 
fruits were started on this plot, despite its heavy crop of last 3^ear, 
and this very fact, coupled with the excessive foliage and extreme 
drought of the current season, almost prevented development in the 
apples. Plot 9 of course was subjected to similar conditions, but to 
a lessened degree in every way. Its original set of fruit and its 
foliage were less and its moisture situation is hardly as severe as 
that of plot 8. Thus, while some of the present results are un- 
doubtedly entitled to the rank of "posers," yet they are not entirely 
beyond partial explanation at least; and at any rate they should 
not be permitted to cloud the main facts, which are given in the 
paragraph above. 

In Table III we have another set of results from the fertilizer 
portions of Experiments 336, 338 and 339, which have been running 
for two years only. The applications are the same as in the experi- 
ments above. 

TABLE III. 



Influence of Fertilizers on Yield and Color. 



Expts. 336, 338, 339. (a) Yields in Pounds, 1908-9. 





I 

Check 


2 
NP 


3 

N K 


Chtck 




6 

N PK 


7 

Check 


8 

Manure 


Lime 


10 
Check 


1908, ist yr. 


562 


860 


748 


1118 


846 


2178 


1067 


2338 


3111 


2748 


Per cent. 
Benefit!, 




15.1 


-19.8 




-23.2 


100.9 


46.7 


42.1 




1909 Totals, 


1087 


6435 


6367 


2502 


3803 


7212 


2436 


4600 


2349 


1720 


Per cent. 
Benefit, 




312.7 


213.6 




53-3 


193-4 




109.7 


19.9 




1909. (b) Color per cent, of apples colored ^ or more. 


Ave. per 
cent. Color, 


57.2 


40.- 


39.8 


49-4 


46.5 


38.0 


49-7 


49.0 


S0.3 


54.8 


Per cent. 

Benefit, 




-14.6 


-12.2 




-3. 


-11.6 




-2.4 


-2.8 





In Tables II and III we have had results from various combi- 
nations of fertilizer elements, as well as some from certain mate- 
rials used singly. Those results being direct from the trees may be 
considered a close expression of the values thus far of the various 
combinations used. In many cases, however, we may wish to know 
which is the more active element in a given combination and ap- 
proximately what values are to be assigned to each of the elements 
in it. For example, in plot 2 of Table II we find a benefit of 78.1 
per cent, resulting from an application of nitrogen and phosphate. 

^The results of the first 3^ear were obviously unaffected by the fertilizer 
treatments, but they are included for the light they throw on some of the 
results of the second year, notably those in plots 2, 3 and 6. 



25 



Here the question arises as to how much of this effect was due to 
nitrogen and how much to phosphate. Any answer to this can be of 
course only an approximation of the truth and hence the values ob- 
tained and shown in the following table are not to be taken too lit- 
erally. They are the nearest approach to the correct values, how- 
ever, that we are able to obtain at this time and they were derived 
in the manner indicated in the footnote to the table. 

TABLE IV. 



Influence of Fertilizer Elements on Yield, Color and Growth.^ 



Estimated Per Cent, of Benefit. 



Expts. 215, 216, 220. 


Yield. 


Color. 


Growth- 


1908-9. 


1909 


1908-9. 


1907-9. 


Nitrogen, In Combination, 


1 49.2% 


15.55% 


—19.35% 


12.1% 




1 8i.i 


104.2 


— 21 .1 


19.4 


Ave. Influence of Nitrogen, . . 


1 65.2 


59.9 


— 20.23 


15.8- 


Phosphate, In Combination, . . . 


1 28.9 


35.65 


— 3.13 


— 3-2 


Phosphate, Alone, 


1 6.2 


52.2 


3.3 


— 1-7 




33.6 


20.85 


4.8s 


7.0 




1 138.3 


178.5 


—9.1 


21 .6 




— 21 .7 


— 21 . 


.9 


g.6 



Expts. 336, 338, 339. 


Yield. 


Color. 








1909 (2nd year). 


1909. 


Nitrogen, In Combination, .... 


236.5% 


—11.9% 


Phosphate , In Combination, . . . 


76.2 


— 2.7 




— 22.9 


— -3 




109.7 


— 2.4 




19.9 


— 2.8 



These results, being derived from those in tables II and III, 
are naturally not materially different, as a whole, but the values of 
the individual elements stand out more sharply. 

Nitrogen and stable manure show striking beneficial effects on 
both yield and growth and characteristically harmful effects on 
color. The effect of the manure is greatest in the third year of the 
first three experiments, while that of the nitrogen is astonishingly 
great in the second year of the three later experiments. 

Phosphates are showing considerable value on yield, especially 
when used in combination with other materials. Their effect on 



^The results here given are calculated or taken from Tables II and III. 
For example, the value of nitrogen in combination was obtained bv following 
NP+NK— PK 

the formula . In other words, the per cents of benefit ob- 

2 

tained in plots two and three were added, from this sum was deducted the 
per cent of benefit in plot 5, and the remainder, divided by 2, is considered 
to be the value of nitrogen in the combination. The other values in com- 
bination were obtained similarly. 
^Per cent of increase in trunk girth. 



26 



color and growth is apparently undecided, as 3 per cent, variations 
from the normal are readily attributable to limitations in our 
methods of determining values. Potash, in combination, has shown 
fairly good effects on 3'ield and growth in the first experiments, but 
has apparently proved rather distinctty harmful in the second three ; 
and considering the results in all six experiments its value in im- 
proving color is ver}- questionable. 

Lime in the first three experiments shows a distinct deficit in 
yield, and no advantage in color, but apparenth* a fair increase in 
growth. In the other experiments an apparent benefit in yield is 
shown. This, however, is due to an unusual increase on the lime 
plot of experim_ent 339, an increase which was due probably more 
to a favorable moisture situation this 3-ear than to any efi'ect of the 
lime. It is sureh' a significant fact that in five out of six places thus 
far, lime shows either no ett"ect or a distinct deficit in yield. 

It will be noted that practically none of the treatments have 
materiall}' improved color while a number of them have distincth^ 
decreased it. This reduction in color is undoubtedly associated with 
delayed inafurity and a diininished light supply to the fruit, the lat- 
ter being due to an increase in the density of foliage following the 
application of the fertilizers. The value of sunlight in developing 
redness in apples is scarcely appreciated. In a test conducted dur- 
ing the fall on York Imperial apples it Avas found that exposure to 
sunlight after picking increased redness by over 35 per cent, while 
apples confined in the dark,, or exposed to electric light and under 
identical conditions otherwise, showed practicalh^ no increase in 
redness. Maturity in sunlight on the trees is undoubtedly the great 
influence affecting redness in fruit, and when soil ingredients ap- 
parently afi'ect it, their efi'ect is produced indirectly, through a modi- 
fication in the main influence. 

In table A", we have the financial value of fertilization as shown 
in some of our most striking results of this year. 

TABLE V. 



Financial Value of Fertilization, 



Expt. 221, 1909 (3rd Yr.) 


Yield 
Lb. 


f 

Bushels ' Value 
per A. at 50c. 


Net Gain 
per Acre. 

izer 




19448 
47028 
48550 


194-5 
470.0 

485-5 


$ 97-25 
235. oo| 

242.75 


S 'S 

13.00. 124.75 
I5.00I 130.50 

1 


Expt. 220, 1909, ('3rd 3-ear). 


]Manure, plot 14, 


291 
1947 


27.9 
373.8 


$ 13-95 
186.90 


$ .... 

15.00 


$ 

157-95 


Expt. 338, 1909, (2nd 3-ear). 


Unfertilized, plots i and ± 

Com. Fertilizer, plots 2 and 3, 


2607 
12026 


156.4 
721.5 


$ 78.20 
360.75 


15-00 


v; 

267.55 



27 

It is to be noted that the net gains are obtained after deducting 
both the cost of the fertiHzer and the value of the unfertiHzed crop, 
also the fruit here is valued at 50 cents per bushel, while the actual 
prices obtained for it varied from 50 cents to $1.25 per bushel; and 
any increase in the appraisement of the fruit of course will propor- 
tionately increase the net gain. It is also to be noted that variations 
in the factors of tillage, spraying and pruning produced no material 
effect on the size of the crop, since the treatment of all plots in 
these respects was uniform. 

Figure i. 



ROW 
B A 



PLAT I 



II 
111 
TV 
V 
VI 

vn 

IX 

X 

XI 

XH 

XUI 

XIY 

XV 

XYI 



CHECK 

NITROGEN & PHOS. 
NITROGEN & POTASH 
CHECK 

PHOS.& POTASH (KCI) 

PM05.& KaSO^ 

CHECK 

N.P.K 

NITROGEN 

CHECK 

p(acidrocK) 
p (raw roc»^ 

CHECK 

STABLE MANURE. 

LIME 

CHECK 



Such striking results as these of course are not to be expected 
everywhere. They evidently occurred here because plant food was 
the crop limiter in these orchards. For any given case this can only 
be determined by experiment. These orchards are on three diverse 
soil types. The soil in one case was evidently "run down" ; in an- 
other case it was in average condition ; and in the third the soil con- 
dition was apparently above the average. These orchards are from 
21 to 37 years of age, and they are the only ones under experiment 
above 20 years old. Age, however, is not a sure index of the need 



28 



of plant food, as one of our youngest orchards, a seven-year old, is 
responding strongly to fertilization, while some older ones have prov- 
ed unresponsive. The big fact is that when such results as these are 
obtainable anywhere, it raises a strong suspicion that similar bene- 
fits may be obtained in many other orchards. And these results show 
beyond peradventure that in some orchards apple trees, like other 
plants, respond strongly and directly to applications of plant food. 

Experiments on Cultural Methods. 

Closely associated with the question of plant-food, is that of 
soil moisture. It is the available moisture that determines in a large 
measure whether or not apples shall attain their proper size ; and it 
is largely to modify moisture supply that the various cultural meth- 
ods are followed. The plan of our experiments comparing these 
methods is shown in Figure I. 

Plan of Experiment on Cultural Methods and Manures. 

As shown in the figure, this experiment tests four methods of 
soil management, viz. : clean tillage, tillage and cover crop, sod 
mulch, and sod. Each treatment occurs both without fertilization 
and with it. The stable manure is applied annually at the rate of 
12 tons per acre; and the commercial fertilizer at the rate of 30 lb. 
of nitrogen (NO), 60 lb. phosphorus pentoxid (P2O5), and 100 lb. 
of potash (K2O). 

On the mulch plot all herbage remains in the orchard, the first 
cutting being raked to the trees as a mulch, and an additional mulch 
of old straw, swamp hay or buckwheat straw at the rate of about 
three tons per acre is applied annually. In this latter respect it dif- 
fers from the so-called "Hitchings plan," and as a conserver of 
moisture it is undoubtedly very much better than that plan. On the 
sod plot, the first cutting of herbage is removed from the orchard 
and the second is left where it falls. The tillage plots are all culti- 
vated until early in July, when those receiving the cover crop are 
seeded to crimson clover, hairy vetch or medium red clover and 
alsike, either singly or in combination. The results to date are from 
the unfertilized plots of the young orchards, and are shown in 
Table V. These results and those in later tables on young orchards 
have been obtained by combining the results from three orchards, 
whose age as noted in Table I ranges from seven to sixteen years. 

TABLE VI. 



Effect of Cultural Methods on Yield, Color, Size and Grov^th, 
Without Fertilization. 



Expts. 217, 218 and 219. Young orchards, (a) Yield. 



1907-9. 


I. 

Clean 
Tillage. 


IV. 

Tillage and 
Cover Crop. 


VII. 
Sod Mulch. 


X. 
Sod. 


Totals, 3 years, 


15048 lb 
108.4 
100. 


16057 Ih 
II5-7 
106.7 
100. 


17776 tb 

128. 1 
118. 1 
no. 7 


13880 tt) 
100. 



29 



1909 (b) Color. Per cent. Apples colored ^ or more. 



Avrage 
Ratios, . 


per cent.. 




, 75.4 
1 100. 


81. 

107.4 


81.5 
108. 1 


85.6 
113. 5 


1908-9. 




(c) 


Size. Average weight of Apples. 




Average 
Ratios, 


— ; — 




4.5 oz 
100. 


4.74 oz 

105.3 
100. 


4.91 oz 

109. 

103.6 


4.69 oz 
104.2 










1907-9. 




(d) 


Growth. Increase in Trunk-girth. 




Average 
Ratios, . 


increase, . 


1 


4.38 in 1 
1 122.3 


4.14 m 1 
115. 6 
100. 


4.29 m 
119. 8 
103.6 


3.58 in 
100. 













In these results, the mulch system is first in yield and size of 
apples, second to sod on color, and second to clean tillage by a 
slight margin on growth."^ It has surpassed the cover crop method 
on every phase and in total ranking is plainly first thus far in the 
combined results of this group of experiments. Reserving judgment 
on the relative merits of these systems for the present we will turn 
to consider the data from a similar experiment in an older orchard, — 
that of Mr. Fassett, in which the trees are now 37 years old. The 
results from the unfertilized plots in this orchard are shown in 
Table VII. 



^The margin is really slighter than appears in the table, as the 1909 meas- 
urements in the mulch plot of experiment 218 were taken a little higher 
on the trunks than those of 1907, owing to the presence of screens on the 
trees at the later date. 

TABLE VII. 



Effect of Cultural Methods on Yield, Color, Size and Growth 
Without Fertilization. 



Expt. 221, Mature Orchard. (a) Yield. 



1907-9. 


IV. 

Tillage and 
Cover Crop. 


VII. 

Sod Mulch. 


Totals, 3 years, | 34269 lb 

Ratios, ". 1 147. 1 


23294 lb 
100. 


1908-9 (b) Color. Per cent. Apples colored ^ or more. 


Ratios, 


57.4% 
100. 


87.5 % 
152.4 


1908-9 (c) Size, average weight of apples. 


Ratios, i 100. 


5.04 oz 
106. 1 


1907-9 (d) Growth, Increase in Trunk-girth. 


Ratios, 


2.9 in 
219.7 


1.32 in 
100. 



From the above results it will be noted that, in the mature 
orchard, tillage with a cover crop for three years has been far su- 
perior to sod mulch in yield and growth, having borne nearly one 



30 



and a half times as much fruit and showing more than double the 
increase in growth. In color, the mulched fruit excels by more 
than 30 per cent.,"^ and in average size of apples it excels by about 6' 
per cent. This last fact is undoubtedly connected"- with the smaller 
crop on the mulched trees. 

The results of Tables VI and VII are apparently contradictory. 
They are all explainable, however, on the bases of soil moisture and 
age of trees. In the young orchards, with the herbage and three-ton 
addition of straw, an effective mulch of sufficient extent was main- 
tained, while in the old orchard we were unable thus to cover more 
than probably half the root area. In the latter case the term sod 
mulch was distinctly appropriate since at least the outer half of the 
roots was under a t^^pical sod and often in dust-dry condition. 

The results in Table VI indicate that, even in tr3dng seasons, 
such as the last two have been, the moisture in orchard soils may be 
conserved more effectively by a good mulch than by tillage. This 
conclusion is corroborated by moisture determinations made by 
Shutt, of Ottawa, Canada, in 1905 and 1906.^ He also has found 
that leguminous plants, particularly those of dense and matted 
growth like hairy vetch, are much less severe in their drain on soil 
moisture than the grasses; and that the shade of the growing vetch 
is a better moisture conserver than the mulch formed by cutting and 
leaving it in place. In other words, the loss b^^ capillarity a^d sur- 
face evaporation from the practically bare ground was greater, 
under the conditions at Ottawa, than the transpiration through the 
legume." 

The cover on our mature orchard is grass only, w^hile on the 
young orchards a scattering growth of alsike or medium red clover 
has been maintained in addition. 

In further explanation of the difference in effectiveness of the 
mulch and cover-crop methods in Tables VI and VII, we may call 
attention to the hastening influence on bearing, which sod undoubt- 
edly exerts under favorable conditions. This was shown in our 
results of last year,* where sod on these same three orchards sur- 
passed clean tillage in 3deld by 13 per cent. It is also shown here 
later, especially in the sod-manure plot of Table IX. But the fact 
that this sod influence can be easily overdone and made to disappear 
under unfavorable conditions, is clearly shown in our results from 
the unfertilized sod plots of Table VI. 

The next table is introduced to show the effect of adding fer- 
tilizers to the four cultural methods. All unfertilized plots are ex- 
cluded from this table, and the yields given include both the manured 
and commercially fertilized plots under each method. 



^Really the mulch excels in color by 52.4 per cent, using the amount of 
color on the cover crop area as a base. 
^Central Experimental Farm. Report of the Chemist, p. 151, 1906. 
^Ibid, 1904, p. 158. 
*Pa. Bui. 91 : 15. 1909. 



31 

TABLE VIII. 

Influence of Cultural Method on Yield, With Fertilization. 



Expts. 217, 2i8, 219. Young- Orchards. 





2 &3. 
Clean Tillage 


5 & 6. 
Tillage and 
Cover Crop. 


8 &9. 
Sod Mulch. 


11 & 12. 

Sod. 


1908 Yields, 

1909 Yields, 


9193 lb 

14554 


9512 lb 

12443 


I 1203 lb 
12571 


10351 tb 

12823 


Totals, 

Ratios, 


23747 
108.2 


21955 
100. 


108.3 


23174 
105.6 


Expt. 221, Mature Orchard. 


1908 Yields, 

1909 Yields, 




6684 
28297 


1035 I 1 
22545 1 


Totals, 

Rations, 


1 


34981 
1 106.3 


32896 1 
100. 1 



As compared with Tables VI and VII, these results show a 
marked leveling effect from addition of fertilizers. In other words, 
the applications of plant food have tended strongly to reduce or even 
nullify the differences due to cultural methods. This effect was also 
very distinct in the appearance of the trees in the field. 

A consecutive increase in productiveness following the addition 
of plant food has been very marked in some cases. For example, 
the mulched plots of Experiment 221, receiving manure and com- 
mercial fertilizer, in 1907 produced 3,050 pounds of fruit ; in 1908, 
as seen in the table, they produced 10,351 pounds; and in 1909, 
22,545 pounds. And this occurred on plots receiving no tillage. 

Fertilization for Different Cultural Methods. 

The question often arises as to what is the best form of fertil- 
izer to accompany different cultural methods. This question is par- 
tially answered by the data in Table IX. 

TABLE IX. 



Effect of Manures on Yield. 



Expts. 217, 218, 219. 



Season 1908-9 (2nd & 3rd Yr.) 


Unfertilized. 


Stable Manure 
12 T. per Acre. 


Com. Fertili- 
zer, 30-60-100 
Lb. per Acre. 


Sod ^lulch, 

Sod, 


13698 lb 

14550 
15702 
1 1 706 


21605 tt) 
20582 


23022 tb 
20681 
20408 
17929 


Totals, 


55656 
100 


90637 
162.8 
no. 5 


82040 
147.4 
100. 


Expt. 221. 


Sod Mulch, 


33II9 

2I09I 


319^4 
35396 




Totals, 


54210 

100. 


67320 

124-3 
105.4 


63S72 
117. 8 
100. 



32 

This table shows the influence of manures^ on yield when used 
in connection with different cultural methods. It will be observed that 
in every case except one, the yields from the fertilized plots have sur- 
passed those from the unfertilized. And in the one exception the 
yields on the corresponding fertilized plots this past year were more 
than double the yield on it. In total effect, considering all treat- 
ments, the fertilized plots show a nice per cent of increase over the 
unfertilized ; and the stable manure at the rates applied shows a 
small gain over the commercial.^ 

Examining the data still more closely, we see that in every 
case on the tilled plots commercial fertilizer has surpassed the 
manure, while on the untilled plots the reverse is true. In other 
words, the present data indicates that, from equal values of manure 
and a proper commercial fertilizer the best results are obtained by 
using the manure on sod or mulch areas, and reserving the fertilizer 
for use in connection with tillage. Either material, however, may 
be used satisfactorily and it is very probable that in any case a more 
or less regular alternation can be made more successful than any 
thing else. 

^The complete commercial fertilizer is here included under the term 
"manure." 

"Twelve tons of average stable manure are estimated to contain about 120 
pounds each of nitrogen and potash (K2O), and about 80 pounds of phos- 
phorus pentoid (P2()5). The relative cost per acre, as applied, is about $15 
for the manure and $13 for the commercial fertilizer. 

TABLE X. 



Effect of Manures on Color, Size and Growth. 

A. Expts. 217, 218 and 219. (a) Color. Per cent. Apples colored ^ or more. 





Unfertilized. 


Stable 
Manure. 


Com. 
Fertilizer. 




71 .2 


61.9 
—9.3 


62.4 
—8.8 


(b) Size. Average weight of apples. 




4.71 
100. 


4.99 
106. 
100. 


5.25 
III. 5 
105.2 




(c) Growth. Increase in Trunk-girth. 


Average Increase, inches, 

Ratios, 


4.12 
100. 


4-3 
104. 1 
100. 


4.43 
107.5 
103. 




B. Expt. 221. 1908-9. (a) Color. Per cent. Apples colored >^ or more. 


Per cent. Benefit, 


72.5 


68 I 
—4.4 


73.5 
I. 


(b) Size. Average weight of apples. 




4.89 

100. 


no. 8 


5.33 
109. 


(c) Growth. Average Increase in Trunk-girth. 




4.22 

100. 


5.86 

139 
119. 1 


4.92 
116. 6 
100. 





33 



Table X shows the effect of manures in both young and old or- 
chards on color and size of fruit and on growth of trees. The 
effects have been fairly distinct in all cases, — reducing the color 
with one exception, and apparently increasing size of fruit and tree- 
growth."" In all cases, the color is least on the plots receiving stable 
manure. In the old orchard, manure shows some advantage over 
commercial fertilizer in wood growth and in size of apples, with 
effects reversed in the young orchards. The greater effect of com- 
mercial fertilizer in the young orchards is probably connected with 
the smaller area over which it is distributed, thus giving relatively 
stronger applications. 

The above data are obtained from extensive work through a 
short period. In Table XI, we have data from the reverse condi- 
tions, — one experiment continued over 21 years. 

^We say "apparently" increased the size of fruit, since the matter of size 
is undoubtedly primarily dependent on soil moisture and number of fruits 
on the tree. Thus any fertilizer effect must necessarily be indirect, as in 
the case of color. 

TABLE XI. 



Massachusetts Experiment on Apples, 1889-1910.^ 



Treatments and Total Yields per A., to Date. 



Plot. 




2 


3 


4 


5 


Annual 
Treatment. 


Manure, 
10 Tons. 


Wood Ashes, 
1 Ton. 


Check. 


Bone & K Ci 
600 & 200 


Bone & Low G. 
Sulfate, 
600 & 400. 


Average Girth, 
Ratios, - - - 


38.25 in. 
136.7 


33-23 in. 
118.8 


27.98 in. 
100 


32.27 in. 
115.3 


37.02 in. 
132.3 


Yields, lb., - - 
Ratios, - - - 


24934 
632.8 


12841 
325.9 


3940 
100 


14453 
366.8 


21863 
554.9 


Color and Size. 


4 


I 


5 


3 


2 



These results are similar to those recorded in the preceding 
tables with the differences in some cases even more distinct. In 
every respect the treated plots have proved superior to the untreated. 
Manure leads in yield and growth but falls next to the check in 
quaHty. It is closely followed in yield and growth and much sur- 
passed in quality by plot 5, which received ground bone and low 
grade sulphate of potash. The superiority of 5 over 4, which differs 
only in the carrier of the potash is very interesting. Whether it is 
due to the magnesia in the sulphate or to a harmful effect of the 
chlorine accumulating from the muriate, or to a soil difference, 
cannot yet be stated. It will be recalled that our results of the 
third year corroborate it, in plots which compare only sulphate and 
muriate. 



^Data furnished by Dir. Wm. P. Brooks, of the Mass. Expt. Sta., Decem- 
ber, 1909. 



34 



The practical point, however, is that with such differences as 
these existing, even though unexplained, the safer policy is to apply 
potash in the sulphate form. The difference in cost is small, and 
if so desired it can be readily met by a reduction in the amount of 
potash applied. This would be justified by our present results, which 
indicate that the usual recornmendations of this material for orchard 
use may be reduced to advantage. 

Summary and Practical Suggestions. 

From a general view^ of the results as a whole, we see that 
there is more than one way of securing good results in orcharding. 
In other words, there is more than one way of varying the limiters 
after they are found. For example, we can conserve moisture either 
with tillage or mulch, or we may secure apparently the same net 
results by proper fertilization. This gives opportunity for choice 
and permits the grower within certain bounds to determine his course 
on the bases of relative expense and practicability. 

In most cases and especially in bearing orchards, this choice 
will result in tillage, either every year or one year in every two or 
three. The tillage will be supplemented by leguminous or other 
proper crops, and will receive additions of plant food when needed. 
But the .relative cost of labor, mulching material, and manures, 
varies with the locality. And where labor is scarce or costly, or the 
land too sloping or stony for tillage, the grower need not lose heart. 
But with a good mulch properly supplemented with plant food, he 
may grow apples equal to the best, — apples in many cases more sat- 
isfactory than those of the man who depends entirely on tillage. 

When we come to the application of fertilizers, the best test 
for their need is in actual trial or experiment. The appearance of 
the trees after all other factors are apparently right, may afford 
some evidence, as may also soil analyses. But the only sure evidence - 
comes from careful trials, remembering that fertilizers can have 
little if any effect on the current year's crop. 

Pending actual results, if it is desired to use fertilizer, our 
present general advice is to apply one carrying about 30 lb. nitrogen, 
60 lb. phosphorus pentoxid (P2O5), and about 50 lb. potash (K^O) 
per acre.^ This should be accompanied by green cover crops or al- 
ternated with stable manure, ten tons per acre, at least once in three 
or four years. 

The time of application is important. For soluble and transient 
materials like nitrate of soda, the best time is when the need is 
greatest, which is probably immediately after the supply of stored 
food is exhausted, or some time after petal-fall and before the first 
of July. The other more permanent material mav be applied at the 
same time, or like stable manure they may be applied in early spring 
or in late winter. 



^Such amounts could be obtained by mixing either of the following com^ 
binations of high grade materials. (A) 100 pounds each of nitrate of soda, 
dried blood, and sulphate or muriate of potash (former safer) ; and 250 lbs. 
steamed bone meal. (B) 100 pounds each of nitrate of soda and sulphate 
or muriate of potash ; 120 pounds dried blood, and 400 pounds acid phos- 
phate. 



35 



For either temporary or permanent covers, leguminous plants 
are best both because of their nitrogen product and their lessened 
drain on soil moisture, especially the matted and dense growing 
kinds, such as hairy vetch. 

Q. What kind of lime did you use in your experiments ? 

A. I used the ordinary agricultural lime — plain lime, fine, but 
not necessarily ground, sometimes air-slaked — anything to make it 
fine. 

Q. In what form was the Nitrogen that you used? 
A. It was in the form of Nitrate of Soda and Dried Blood — 
half Nitrate of Soda and half Dried Blood. 
Q. Why is it applied in that form? 

A. It is put on in that way in order to prolong the action. I 
can secure the same results by applying Nitrate of Soda twice — 
half soon after petals fall, and half later. I think Dried Blood is a 
very desirable carrier for Nitrogen as a tree fertilizer, though there 
is no objection to obtaining it in other ways. 

Q. Is the fertilizer that applies 30 pounds of Nitrogen, 60 
pounds of phosphoric acid, and 100 pounds of potash to the acre, a 
perfect fertilizer? 

A. Yes; if by that you mean a complete fertilizer. If I were 
recommending a fertilizer for apples, however, I should prefer now 
to make it 30 — 60 — 50. 

Q. Are those actual amounts? 

A. Yes; they are the amounts of actual Nitrogen, Phosphoric 
Acid and Potash to be applied per acre. 

Q. Is Muriate just as good as Sulphate? 

A. I do not know whether it is or not. I am using Muriate in 
my 30 — 60 — 100 ; but right now I think the safest thing you can do 
would be to use Sulphate. It costs a little more ; but present results 
seem to me to justify it. I do not know how they will look seven or 
eight years from now. 

Q. In view of its action in other tests, would you not be afraid 
of its making the ground acid? 

. A. The Sulphate is not so likely to do this as the Muriate. In 
some cases, especially in the case of tobacco, Muriate cannot be used 
at all. Also in certain tests on small fruits, if I recall correctly, the 
sulphate proved best. A similar condition may be found to hold in 
the case of apples. Our third year results point that way rather 
distinctly. 

Q. It looks to you then, as if the sod mulch is about the best? 

A. It certainly does on the growing orchards. Clean tillage 
has it beaten just a little on growth; but when it comes to yield, 
color and size of the fruit, the mulch is thus far evidently preferable 
on the young trees. 

Q. Do I understand you that you attribute this difiPerence to the 
amount of moisture? 

A. Yes. 

Q. You said that there were two years of severe drought. 
Would not years when you had plenty of moisture, plenty of rain, 
change the conditions somewhat ; might you not have to alter your 
figures somewhat in that case ? 



36 



A. Not these figures, though of course, our future resuhs may 
be different. I cannot predict what is going to happen in the future ; 
but you know most people tell you that the main reason for tillage 
is to conserve moisture. The mulch in the most trying season, has 
conserved moisture better than tillage ; and when I say mulch did it, 
I mean a real mulch, not an imitation of one. 

Q. How many tons of straw did it require to cover an acre? 

A. Three tons to the acre annually is the amount we are using. 

Q. How old are those trees? 

A. Seven to sixteen years of age — one orchard seven, one 
twelve to fifteen, one sixteen. The age of the trees is to be consid- 
ered, as well as the amount of mulch and its extent from the trees. 

Prof. Stewart. Notice here, that even on the mature orchard, 
where the mulch did not completely cover the roots of the trees, we 
have the size of the apples averaging a little greater than on the tilled 
portions. Can you explain this ? 

C. J. Tyson. How about the relative yield of fruit? 

Prof. Stewart. Yes, that's it. The much larger crop on the 
tilled part kept down the size of the individual fruits. 

Q. What effect has sod mulch on the bearing of fruit ? 

A. It seems to hasten the bearing habit. 

Q. How do you know how to strike a limiter ? 

A. It demands experiment — actual trial. There is no other 
way that I know to do it. If you have to hire a man and pay him 
double wages for the time required to carefully experiment in one 
corner of your orchard, you will profit by it in the long run. You 
have to ask the trees themselves. The limiter is different in different 
places. No question about it, it must be found and corrected to get 
the best results. 

Q. Will any fertilizer reach the growing crop ? 

A. No; you may be able to affect the crop of the following 
year. Nothing will reach the growing crop. 

Q. Nitrogen will, won't it? 

A. Of course it will affect the foliage, but not the amount of 
fruit. 



ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS OF SUCCESS IN FRUIT 
GROWING. 



Mr. Albert T. R^pp, President Nezv Jersey State Horticultural So- 
ciety, Glasshoro, N. J. 

Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen, and Members of the 
Adams County Horticultural Society: I see that I am on the pro- 
gram for "Essential Elements of Success in Fruit Growing." One 
of our successes in New Jersey is the fighting of insects of the apple. 
In a practical way, we may talk on different methods used in differ- 
ent sections. When I attended a meeting last winter I visited a fruit 
farm where I saw the fruit grower trimming his trees in a way 
which looked very much to me as if he was ruining his orchard by 
his hard trimming. Some time ago I received a letter from him 
stating that he had received as high as six dollars per tree from a 



37 



four year old orchard. So I think we have to be a little conservative 
about judging methods from other sections. But insects are the 
same in one section as in another — you have the same scale, same 
codling moth, same curculio and lice as we do, and the same methods 
will kill them. I am aware of the fact that Pennsylvania is a lime 
and sulphur state, and I feel a little timid about mentioning the 
material that we use for killing scale, which is crude oil. We start 
to spray about the middle of February with oil, after heating it to 
about one hundred degrees with live steam, agitated as it is used, so 
as to keep the heavier oils and light oils together, using as high a 
pressure as we can get, and after spraying for the scale, we begin to 
spray for lice. We will go over the trees with a light spray of oil 
when the leaves are as small as a mouse's ear, or smaller; the next 
thing that we spray for is the codling moth and the curculio, follow- 
ing immediately after spraying for the lice. We used four pounds 
of arsenate of lead to fifty gallons of water. This year we will use 
five pounds. Except where we had scab on our Wine Sap last year, 
we will omit the arsenate of lead and use instead one-half pound of 
paris green, three pounds of sulphate of copper with ten pounds of 
lime to fifty gallons of water. The reason we do not use the arsenate 
of lead in the Bordeaux mixture is because we use an excess of lime,, 
which would make it too pasty to spray with. After the blossoms 
drop we use the Bordeaux, and immediately after the Bordeaux we 
use the lead. We used to count how many times we were going to 
spray the trees. We can now spray as many times as we please, 
until all danger of the codling moth and fungus is past. After the 
first spraying of the Bordeaux we put in two and a half pounds of 
sulphate of copper instead of three pounds to fifty gallons of water. 

W^e use other methods of catching and destroying the coddling 
moth by scraping the bark of the older trees before we spray with 
oil. About July ist we begin to put old burlap around the trunk of 
trees, and as soon as we see the sign of the worm coming out of the 
apple, we remove the burlap, destroy the worm and place the bur- 
lap back and repeat this about every ten days, until they stop coming 
from the apple. With all our spraying we find as high as fifty 
worms to a tree. 

I have brought one of these bands to show you how it 
works (Shows burlap band with codling moth cocoons attached). 
We place one of these bands around the butt of the tree. We used 
one last year, and are going to use two next year — one at the bottom 
of the tree and one at the beginning of the limbs. 

Q. At what season of the year do you apply these ? 

A. About the first of July — just as you see them coming out. 
Each moth lays about 200 eggs for the next year. These bands are 
put on after spraying, and are changed frequently. This one was 
taken off day before yesterday. 

There are three brothers of us in the John Repp Estate. I have 
charge of four hundred and fifty acres all set in fruit that consists 
of Pears, Apples and Grapes, with 14,500 Wine Sap alone, — 
seven thousand just coming into bearing. Charles F. Repp has 
charge of the Cold Storage and Ice Plant, with a capacity for storing 
10,000 barrels of fruit, and a capacity for making thirty-five 
tons of ice per day. Joseph P. Repp, who is in the commission 



38 



business at No. 154 Dock Street, Philadelphia, Pa., has charge of 
selling all of the fruit from the farm. I thank you for your kind 
attention. 



The Chairman. You are invited to ask Mr. Repp any ques- 
tions desired. 

Member. What fertilizer do you use, and when applied ? 

Mr. Repp. In the spring of the year we put on two or three 
handfuls to the tree — 2V2 per cent ammonia from fish and blood; 8 
per cent phosphoric acid from rock; 10 per cent potash from muriate. 
We have been using muriate for 15 or 20 years. We plow that 
down and keep our orchards clear until the first of July; and then 
let the weeds go. We use 100 tons of basic slag (used 40 last year) 
and we get good results. If you want to give the fruit a better color, 
you can put the color in with a chemical of your own make, or some 
other. I use lime stone dust. I used 250 tons last year (about one 
ton to the acre). 

Member. Is that ground lime stone? 

Mr. Repp. Yes. 

Member. Do you see any difference from the use of the lime 
stone ? 

Mr. Repp. Yes ; it runs right to the roots. We get color and 
size, and crops, too. 

Member. How much slag to the acre? 
Mr. Repp. Six hundred (600) pounds. 
Member. When ought it to be put on ? 

Mr. Repp. It ought to be put on now ; but I cannot get it 
until March. 

M.ember. How do you prune your apples ? 

Mr. Repp, The apples we set out from the nursery, cutting off 
a few bottom limbs. We thin at four or five years. 

Member. I mean on your bearing orchards. 

Mr. Repp. My father, years ago, used to trim very heavily. 
We are trimming- less and less every year. 

Member. What makes color but sunlight ? How about giving 
the trees sunlight instead of chemical? 

Mr. Repp. You get a crop with my methods — lower limb lying 
on the ground — and that is somewhat of an item, is it not, when ap- 
ples are bringing a good price ? 

Member. What variety of Pears do you grow ? 

Mr. Repp. We grow Bartletts, Sickle and Kieffers ; but Pears 
will not produce enough to the tree. They do not grow wide 
enough. 

Member. How far apart do you set your trees? 
Mr. Repp. About twenty feet apart. 

Member. Is this Wine Sap, that you showed us, an early 
bearer ? 

Mr. Repp. Bears in about five or six years. 
Member. What varieties of apples do you grow? 
Mr. Repp. Wine Sap, Maiden Blush, Star, Early Ripe, Ben 
Davis — most of them ; York Imperials won't bear at all. 

Member. How old are your Wine Saps when they bear? 
Mr. Repp. Four years. 



39 



Member. Do you attribute your color largely to the lime stone 
dust? 

Mr. Repp. I can see where I put it — the color has never been 
better than this year. 

Member. Do you think that brings the color on ? 

Mr. Repp. It brings the size. It is hard work to tell as to 
color. I thought so; and the man that worked for me did also. 

Member. What does it cost per ton? 

Mr. Repp. We get it delivered for $3.50 per ton. 

Member. What is the actual fertilizer application per acre ? 

Mr. Repp. Two or three handfuls per tree the first year, and 
keep it up. C5ld trees as high as a ton an acre. 

Member. What time do you apply? 

Mr. Repp. In the spring of the year. 

Member. Is ground lime better than air-slaked lime? 

Mr. Repp. It lasts longer. Air-slaked is quicker, but it is 
gone sooner; the ground lime will act for years until it is used up. 

Member. Is this Wine Sap that you have here anything like 
the Stayman Wine Sap? 

Mr. Repp. Nothing like it. 

Member. It is not so large? 

Mr. Repp. No, it is not so large as the Stayman, but we get 
the quantity. 

Member. What tools do you use for your orchard cultivation? 
Mr. Repp. Bateman's Riding Cultivator. 

Member. Can you give us any figures as to cost of erecting 
a cold sorage of say, 10,000 barrels capacity, and operating cost of 
same per diem? 

Mr. Repp. Impossible for me to answer this question correctly, 
but about $20,000. 

Member. Do you grade fruit before or after storage? 
Mr. Repp. After storage. 

Member. What have you found the best picking basket? 
Mr. Repp. We use a bag. 

Member. What is the best package for apples while in storage ? 
Mr. Repp. Hampers. 

Member. What ladder, if any, do you use ? 
Mr. Repp. Tilley's Orchard Ladder. 

Member. You doubtless have a regular rule of proceedure in 
picking and transferring apples to storage. Will you kindly de- 
scribe it? 

Mr. Repp. Apples picked and placed on sorting table and then 
placed in hampers and then loaded on a platform wagon made es- 
pecially that hold 74 hampers. W^e do not have any bruised fruit. 
All culls are thrown out by the sorters at the tables. 

Member. What sprayer do you use? 

Mr. Repp. Demming Gasoline Sprayer. 

The Chairman. As a committee to look over our fruit and 
report at a later session, I will appoint Mr. Bassett, Mr. Repp and 
Mr. Anderson. We do not offer any premiums ; but we shall be 
very glad to have you look over the exhibit, and make any sugges- 
tions that you think may be to our benefit. 



40 



'^GETTING TOGETHER." 



C. E. Bassett^ Fennville, Mich., President Fennville Fruit Shippers^ 

Association. 

In the words of the old colored preacher, "Before I begin my 
talk I want to say something." I do not presume to come to you with 
an idea that I can present any new or startling facts. I ha,ve fre- 
quently noted that the value of gatherings of this kind lies not so 
much in the new ideas received as in the inspiration or enthusiasm, 
which results from an exchange of experiences. To any wide awake 
man the spirit of enthusiasm is contagious and, noting the successes 
of a friend or rival, is sufficient to arouse in him the determination 
to excel in a similar line. Nine-tenths of life's failures are due, not 
so much to an ignorance of methods, as they are to a want of the 
proper energy to do as well as we know how. So, if I may be able 
to add my mite in making this an ''inspiration meeting," I shall feel 
amply repaid. 

The fruit grower, like the grower of any commodity, is chiefly 
concerned with two factors, viz., the art of production and the art 
of selling. Both of these factors must be given due attention if the 
grower is to attain that degree of success which he should. He may 
know the fundamental principles of fruit growing and be able to put 
into the fruit package a strictly No. i or fancy article. This, how- 
ever, does not always insure a return to the grower in keeping with 
the grade and quality of the product. It is true that high class fruit 
properly graded and properly packed will often take care of itself 
and net handsome returns to the grower when placed in the hands 
of the commission man, or even when placed upon the general mar- 
ket. Unfortunately, however, this cannot always be relied upon, 
and so we have come to realize that the producer must give serious 
attention to the art of selling. It is certainly to his advantage that 
this business end of things be no longer left with speculators who are 
yearly securing larger returns for their labors than are the growers 
of the product. It is as much our business to market what we grow 
as it is to grow it. It is not enough for us as fruit growers to pro- 
duce fancy fruit ; we should see to it that that fruit goes into the 
hands of the consumer and that the prices paid us are entirely in 
keeping with those high prices usually paid the commission man or 
the speculator. That this can be successfully done needs no argu- 
ment before such an intelligent body of horticultural people as I see 
assembled here this afternoon. Many of our best fruit growers 
throughout the country are attending to the business side of their 
affairs in a business-like way, and as a result of these additional ef- 
forts are reaping handsome returns. 

The reason why most fruit growers have hitherto given little 
attention to the selling of their products is because of the fact that 
their entire energy has been given to the production of the fruit and 
its preparation for market. Their product is perishable, and where 
sales cannot be made for spot cash it is often necessary to make con- 
signment to commission firms. Probably no class of business men 
are more thoroughly condemned or more fully trusted. Millions 
of dollars worth of produce are sold by them upon honor with 



41 



scarcely a restraint or check upon their actions except such as may 
be dictated by poHcy or their own conscience. It is little wonder then 
that selfish and dishonest men enter this field of business to the con- 
stant annoyance of decent men and that such suspicion as may be en- 
gendered by rascality will often attach to the best firms in the same 
line of business. Good, strong, honest firms may be found in most 
all cities by inquiry in the proper channels. Let the best be selected 
for patronage, and then make them your partners. 

This is an age of co-operation. Competition has been so sharp 
and the desire for increased profits is so great that we find nearly 
every class of business well organized for mutual profit. The world 
never saw such combinations of capital as have lately been formed, 
under what we are pleased to call the "trust" system. In some 
lines of business competition had destroyed profits and a combination 
was necessary to cheapen the cost of production or increase the sell- 
ing price of their products, or both. 

Let us look at the horticultural situation and see if our present 
methods are not in need of improvement. As a result of careful in- 
vestigation, I am, convinced that a bushel of peaches for which the 
consumer pays $1.50, does not net the average Michigan grower over 
fifty cents ! This means that the grower pays twice as much for 
getting his fruit to the consumer as he receives for his own labor in 
producing that fruit. Is such a condition fair? What ordinary busi- 
ness is there which will stand such a constant drain and profitably 
exist? 

These facts are probably well knowm to you all, so that it is very 
simple to diagnose the disease from which our business suffers. 
What is the remedy? There's the rub. The threadbare saying, "In 
union there is strength," has become an axiom, but these abstract 
propositions are not enough to solve the problem. We want to 
know how to apply the remedy to the disease, so as to get practical 
results. I know of no better way of showing how co-operation can 
help us than by telling you of some ways in which it has aided us 
in the fruit belt of western Allegan County. 

One of the first drawbacks that we had to contend with in the 
Michigan fruit belt was the cost of transportation. The location of 
our orchards is such that we can patronize either the railroad or the 
boat lines, but there has been no competition between them. An ex- 
press company operated over the fruit train for about fourteen years, 
furnishing very poor service and stubbornly maintaining a six-and- 
one-half-cent rate on small baskets to Chicago. We had no organ- 
ization, and the efforts of individuals to get better or cheaper service 
were of no effect. 

The season of 1888 brought such low prices for fruit that it was 
evident that something must be done, and co-operation was resorted 
to. The Fennville Fruit Shippers' Association was organized in 
1891 and the "Granger System" of shipping fruit was adopted. The 
success of our association under this plan has been wonderful. We 
have a local agent of the association who receipts for and loads the 
fruit into ventilated cars, holding about 2,500 small baskets each, for 
which he receives $2.50 per car. A special fast fruit train starts 
from Fennville at six o'clock every evening, Saturdays excepted, for 
Chicago. The cars are all billed to our Chicago consignee, who does 



42 



the unloading- and attends to the freight, shortages, etc., receiving 
for this service $5.00 per car. 

As a result of this co-operation, we have been able to secure the 
general adoption of a more or less standard climax package, which 
has resulted in a saving in their cost of more than one-half. The 
freight rate has been lowered from the express rate of six and one- 
half cents to two and one-half cents, and the boat lines having to 
meet this competition, every shipper in our fruit belt has been equally 
benefited by the operation of our association, whichever way he 
shipped. AH shortages have been promptly paid, which is quite a 
different experience from that we had with the express company. 
The association has actually reduced the cost of packages and trans- 
portation to about one-third of what it was under the old plan. It is 
impossible to estimate the actual amount of money saved by the work 
of this association, but some idea can be imagined when I tell you 
that the very first year the association did business it saved one large 
grower fully $1,000. In one year our fruit section shipped 6,000,000 
small baskets of peaches, and the saving to the growers that year 
was over $200,000. 

Not only have we obtained better service at much less cost, 
but it has been done with a cash profit to the association. This profit, 
amounting to many thousands of dollars, has been expended in the 
grading and graveling of our public highways, until we now have 
reconstructed several miles of first class gravel roads. Before our 
association undertook this work, 200 or 250 baskets were considered 
a good load, while now our teams handle more easily 500 to 700 bas- 
kets. By our unity of action we have also gotten the railroad to do- 
nate 300 cars of gravel for this road building. We find that where 
a single individual has trouble in getting the ear of the railway offi- 
cials, the representatives of an organization of 400 shippers receive 
a most respectful and gracious hearing. 

So much for what we have been able to do in reducing the cost 
of transportation. There is another feature I desire to refer to and 
that is the way in which our growers have co-operated in the manner 
of packing and selling our fruit. It is generally conceded that the 
old method of consigning fruit, to be sold on commission, is entirely, 
wrong and our local horticultural society has been working for some 
time, trying to establish a local fruit market and get outside dealers 
to come there and buy. Advertising booklets have been sent out, 
with the result that we have buyers with us all through the season, 
and their competition has kept prices fairly good. During the past 
four years, from eighty acres of fruit, I have not consigned to the 
amount of $25, but have sold at home at very satisfactory prices. 

But there is another form of co-operation which, with us, prom- 
ises to be of permanent benefit — the central packing house system. 
We have five of these packing houses in Fennville and although the 
system is not fully perfected, it has already demonstrated its effi- 
ciency in handling and marketing the products of large orchards. 
Usually six or eight growers combine and erect a packing house be- 
side the railroad. Their fruit is brought direct from the orchards to 
this central packing house, where it is carefully graded and packed, 
each grower receiving credit for the number of baskets of each 
grade. The foreman and packers, having no interest in the fruit, 



43 



pack top and bottom alike and every basket can thus be guaranteed. 
Solid cars of one straight grade can thus be purchased any day dur- 
ing the season, and we find that buyers will pay more for this fruit 
than where they have to drive around the country and pick up a load, 
of as many grades as there were packers. 

The obstacles in the way of this central packing house plan may 
be mentioned as : First, what may be termed the natural conservatism 
of the average grower ; second, the lack of confidence in his fellows 
and of the results to be obtained by association and combination of 
interest ; third, some expense in putting up and equipping a plant ; 
and, fourth, enterprise and confidence in the outcome to carry on the 
undertaking. A rather high order of ability and good judgment, 
combined with some experience, is necessary in managing such an 
undertaking, and the manager must command the confidence of his 
associates and patrons. 

The principal advantage is the application of modern and sys- 
tematic business methods to the fruit industry. Organization is the 
basis of modern successful business operations, and only those lines 
of business that are well organized are successful in a marked de- 
gree. The statementjs often made that an organization among far- 
mers is sure to fail, that farmers will not hang together, etc., ad 
nauseam. I think that the experiment among our packing houses 
disproves this statement, and I believe that the tendency among pro- 
gressive fruit growers is toward such organizations. I believe that 
these separate packing houses will eventually grow into a federation, 
with a central head, that shall keep in touch with all of the principal 
markets and keep the units of the federation informed regarding 
markets and prices, — a fruitgrowers' ''trust," if you please. 

The packing houses furnish a more reliable and desirable qual- 
ity of fruit and Chicago prices are obtained for the fruit at the point 
of shipment, thus effecting a saving of nearly half the expense, as 
noted above. It is evident that the dealer in Buffalo, who would be 
willing to pay 75 cents per bushel for a car of peaches in Chicago, 
of the uncertain and damaged quality that he would get there, would 
willingly pay the same price for fresh, straight-packed fruit here, as 
the expense of shipping is no more; and so the grower receives 75 
cents at the packing-house for fruit for which the commission man 
returns the consignor 50 cents. Experience has abundantly proven 
this self-evident assertion. 

I trust that you will pardon me for speaking so at length about 
what we have done at Fennville, but our successes have opened our 
eyes to the possibilities of what may be accomplished by a unity of 
action. If agriculturists could be brought to realize what co-opera- 
tion might do for them, who could live without paying them tribute ? 
In my experience among growers, I have found among them parasites 
who would oppose co-operation in every form ,for no other reason 
than that the less his neighbors know, the greater his opportunity 
to profit by their ignorance. 

Co-operation is the beacon light of emancipation to the farmer 
and the only means by which that traditional fear and suspicion, 
born of wrongs and injustices as far back as Jacob and Esau, can be 
dispelled. Where co-operation is the w^atchword, the community is 
immune from the adventurer, who figures farmers generally as his 
legitimate prey. 



44 



Member. How do you sell your apples? 

Mr. Bassett. We make contracts. Many of our apples were 
sold this year in July, at from $3.50 to $3.65 per barrel, and I fur- 
nished the barrel. 

Member. I would like to ask Mr. Bassett if he knows of any 
successful operation of a central packing house for apples. 

Mr. Bassett. No sir, only in the West. Of course, there they 
have the system in fine shape, — in Washington and Oregon. 

Member. Are the orchards pretty closely located? 

Mr. Bassett. Yes, they are. The people are simply driven to 
co-operate. It costs them more to get a package of apples from the 
Hood River Valley to Chicago market than it costs me to produce 
our apples. It's this Western co-operation that sets us to thinking, 
wondering what it's all going to mean. Do not be afraid of their 
gobbling you up. I believe we have a future ; I do not believe they 
will ever get it away from us, unless we allow them. It will depend 
on us whether we shall have this business or whether we shall not. 
They are raising a fancy apple — an apple they can not put upon the 
market at a cheap price ; but you must remember that the large con- 
suming public demand a cheaper apple. They cannot afford to pay 
the high price ; and if my friend Mr. Repp can sell Wine Saps for 
eight dollars a barrel, I glory in his ability. I am not so sectional, 
however, as to believe that what is so in Michigan is so everywhere 
else. But let us all be proud of our country. I am proud of Mich- 
igan ; I think it is one of the best sections in the country. The lack 
of transportation facilities and the extremely high price of land out 
West makes it impossible for them to compete for the cheaper de- 
mand. A man w^ho goes out there from here, will have to be satis- 
fied with ten acres where it was customary for him to have a hun- 
dred and twenty. He puts all the energy on those ten acres that he 
previously had put on the hundred and twenty— intensive farming 
against extensive farming. Could you not get better fruit if you 
were to concentrate on ten acres the energy you are now expending 
on say your hundred and sixty acres? 

Member. Your road-building; is that independent of the 
State? 

Mr. Bassett. Yes ; this road-building is simply a local prop- 
osition. If we build a stone road we get some state aid. 

Member. How do your fruit growers generally procure their 
barrels up there? 

Mr. Bassett. We have to buy them from the local coopers. A 
good many growers buy the stock — a car load or two — and have 
their own cooper shops right on the farm. They make their own 
barrels in the odd seasons, when they can have them made cheap. 
When they sell their orchards, they sell the barrels with them. 

Member. Does the Fruit Growers' Association help in buying 
barrels ? 

Mr. Bassett. Yes, we ship in a great many car loads of barrels 
when they are shy. 

Member. Do you advertise for bids to supply barrels ? 

Mr. Bassett. No ; we go out on the open market and buy out- 
right. We get propositions nearly every day for barrels, and every- 
thing else. 



45 



Member. Do you box any apples ? 

Mr, Bassett. We are trying the experiment in a small way. 

Member. If you hold that the Michigan Northern Spy has as 
good a flavor as the apple grown in the Northwest, why should it 
not pay to buy and box them and market them as boxed apples ? 

Mr. Bassett. We think it would, but we have not demon- 
strated it. We have not gotten to the point where we can make a 
report. 

Member. You spoke of pruning and letting the sunlight in; 
do you prune hard every year? 
Mr. Bassett. Yes. 

Member. Is that just apple, or peach and apple? 
Mr. Bassett. All kinds of fruit. 



DISCUSSION OF VARIOUS NURSERY METHODS OF 
PROPAGATION FOR BEST ORCHARD RESULTS. 



By Pro^. W. J. Wright^ Assistant in Horticulture, Pennsylvania 
State College, State College, Pa. 

It is unfortunate that there exists among farmers and fruit 
growers a general feeling of distrust of the nurseryman. It is still 
more unfortunate that this feeling is not always without foundation. 
In fact so general has been the dissatisfaction among buyers of nur- 
sery stock that the ''tree agent" and the nurseryman have often be- 
come the butt of ridicule at horticultural meetings and in the local 
press, and are tolerated only as a necessary evil. Every farm paper 
and Experiment Station in the country has probably been the con- 
fidant of those who feel themselves aggrieved at the hands of some 
nursery firm. Sometimes they have a just grievance but more often 
it is the fault of the buyer or of the "tree agent," for whom the nur- 
seryman is justly held responsible. 

A careful inquiry into the cause of this feeling of distrust shows 
that it is most largely due to trees not being true to name and that 
a large part of this trouble comes from the careless habit of buying 
from unreliable firms or of unscrupulous or careless agents without 
first inquiring into the standing of the business firm or the personal 
responsibility of the agent. Well established firms having a reputa- 
tion to maintain, seldom distribute misnamed varieties. The business 
system of a well regulated nursery is such that mistakes are well nigh 
impossible and it would be poor business policy, to say the least, for 
a well established firm, with a large investment to willfully send out 
misnamed trees. On the other hand, there are constantly springing 
up throughout the country so called nursery firms who are in 
reality only dealers, and who buy every tree they sell. Such firms 
have but little invested and do not feel so keenly the need of an un- 
sullied reputation, nor can they be so well assured of the quality of 
the stock they sell or its trueness to name as can those who grow 
their own stock or have it grown on contract. The guarantee that 
stock is true to name, backed up only by the promise to replace trees 
not found so, is of little value to the buyer who must wait until they 
come into bearing to make sure. 



46 



The danger of getting diseased trees is now reduced to the 
minimum by an effective nursery inspection. It forms, however, a 
strong basis of complaint by buyers against nurserymen. In most 
cases diseases are probably introduced in some other way. Though 
there is no doubt some danger, it is one of the lesser of the tree 
buyer's troubles. 

Another cause of complaint is that trees received from the nur- 
sery are improperly headed. Nurserymen it is true have been slow 
to accept the idea of low headed trees for very good business rea- 
sons on their part. Nursery stock is planted close. The tendency 
is therefore for trees to head high. Low headed trees require more 
room, thus fewer trees per acre. Most nurserymen can supply low 
headed trees if desired. The trouble too often is that the buyer 
neglects to specify his preference in the order. Yearling trees are 
always to be had and present the advantage of allowing the buyer 
to form the head as he chooses. 

The substitution of varieties is a practice indulged in even with 
some of our most reliable nursery firms and is the cause of much 
dissatisfaction. It is not to be expected that a firm will carry every 
variety of fruit grown, but they should carry every variety they 
catalogue. If the order is placed early and no notice is sent that the 
order cannot be filled to the letter, the buyer supposes that no vari- 
eties will be substituted. If, when the order is received, it is found 
that substitutions have been made the firm should be wired at once 
and a settlement demanded. In case it is too late or it is otherwise 
impossible to obtain the desired variety that season, damages could 
probably be collected. 

On the other hand the buyer may delay his order until late in 
the planting season and then order his trees shipped at once. Under 
such conditions the nurserymen cannot do justice to the order 'and the 
buyer can have but little cause for complaint if the trees are not 
satisfactory. 

In ordering trees the following directions, if observed, will go 
far toward eliminating many unpleasant experiences : 

( 1 ) Order direct from a firm of good standing which grows its 
own stock or has it grown on contract. 

(2) Buy of your local nurseryman if he fulfills these conditions. 

(3) Place your orders early. 

(4) State specifically just what you want both as to the varie- 
ties, and style and class of stock. Don't leave any room for sup- 
position. 

(5) Give expHcit shipping directions, and state just when you 
wish stock delivered. 

(6) Remember that the purchase price of trees is a small part 
of the orchard cost. A few dollars extra spent for trees, if it will 
purchase just what you want, will be well spent. 

(7) Make it your business to see that trees are not delayed in 
transit. 

(8) Carry out your part of the contract by seeing that the trees 
are well cared for on arrival and that they are properly planted. 

That there is dissatisfaction with ordinary grown nursery stock 
cannot be denied and many growers are casting about for a means 
of overcoming these troubles. Then, too, there is a growing desire 



47 



among orchardists for so-called pedigree stock — stock of known 
parentage. Many have tried the experiment of having their stock 
grown to order by experienced nurserymen. Thus grown, it costs 
slightly more than common stock, but has not always given satis- 
faction. In fact there is a growing tendency among orchardists to 
grow their own trees. 

It is not the policy of the writer to advocate this plan in all 
cases. The operations of plant propagation are simple in the ex- 
treme, though not all who attempt it on a commercial scale are suc- 
cessful. In fact the determining factor of a successful grower of 
nursery stock is a knowledge of plants and their needs. Almost 
any orchardist who is capable of caring for an orchard and bringing 
it into bearing should possess that knowledge. Of the tW'O accom- 
plishments, the latter probably requires the greater skill, but the 
orchardist who attempts to grow his own trees should not be sur- 
prised if each specimen which subscribes to his ideal costs him con- 
siderably more than would ordinary stock bought from a nursery. 
The cost price of trees, however, as has already been pointed out, is 
but a small part of the orchard cost, and if satisfaction is secured 
by this means it may be overlooked. 

The writer supposes that those who may be interested in grow- 
ing their own stock are familiar with the processes of root-grafting 
and budding and the methods of securing seedling stocks. If not, 
they are referred to the Nursery Book by Bailey, probably the best 
book on the subject, or to Plant Propagation by Fuller, or to various 
Experiment Station and Farmer's Bulletins on the subject. There 
are, however, a few points which have been discussed pro and con 
in horticultural papers for the past few years which might be briefly 
touched upon at this time. 

One of these points is the relative merits of budded, whole root 
grafted, and piece root grafted apples. Briefly the advantages 
claimed for each are as follows : 

(1) Budded trees are upon stocks which are already growing 
and firmly established in the soil. They therefore make a stronger 
growth, they have a stronger, healthier root system and the union 
of stock and bud is stronger than in the root-grafted trees. 

(2) On the other hand the devotees of the root-grafted method 
claim cheapness because the operation can be performed indoors 
during the winter instead of outdoors during the summer when labor 
is higher, and point to the fact that salable trees can be produced one 
year quicker. Those favoring the use of whole roots claim to se- 
cure a stronger tree from the fact that it receives more nourishment 
than the one grown from a piece root graft. Those favoring the 
piece root system contend that the only object of the root is to start 
the scion growing and keep it alive until it can send out roots for 
itself and that the real object should be to induce the scion to send 
out roots by giving it only a small stock in order that the tree may 
essentially be on its ow^n roots. The fact that either system produces 
good trees is sufficient argument that all are good. 

For extremely cold climates where roots are liable to winter 
injury it is probably the best plan to have trees on their own roots 
instead of some seedling stock root whose hardiness is not known. 
In this case the piece root system seems to be best adapted. 



48 



Another topic of considerable importance is the relative hardi- 
ness of seedling stocks grown from seeds of hardy varieties. There 
are those who claim that stocks grown from Northern Spy seeds, for 
example, are resistant to attacks of woolly aphis. This point has 
not been distinctly proven. From the fact, however, that the seedling 
rarely reproduces the qualities of the parent variety to any marked 
extent, so far as fruit and manner of growth is concerned, it can 
hardly be expected that it will retain this important characteristic 
of hardiness with any greater degree of certainty. When relatively 
small numbers of stocks are to be raised, however, it might pay to 
grow them from seeds of such hardy varieties as Northern Spy, Ben 
Davis, etc. (Such stocks can sometimes be bought.) 

Pedigreed trees, or trees of known parentage, have already been 
referred to. The idea that stock propagated from trees which are 
especially fruitful or which bear fruit of exceptional quality will 
reproduce these desirable characteristics has been gaining much pop- 
ularity in the past few years, though it has been practiced uncon- 
sciously for centuries in the selection of seeds. In graftage, however, 
sex does not count, which makes of it a different problem. That 
this characteristic may or may not be transmitted depends probably 
upon many circum.stances, two important ones of which are: (i) 
Is this particular tree notably fruitful because it is especially favored 
by external conditions, such as food, moisture, etc.? or, (2) Is this 
tendency to fruitfulness a reproduction of a characteristic of its 
parent? If the former, we should expect no transference of the 
characteristic. If the latter, it is reasonable to expect that the char- 
acteristic will be transmitted. In the vegetable kingdom the bud and 
not the plant is the unit. Every bud is different from every other 
bud, and if detached is capable of reproducing a similar plant if 
given the proper environment. Every tree of any one variety is the 
asexual offspring of a single bud or tree. Occasionaly a certain bud 
or branch on a tree or plant is entirely different from its fellows. 
The tree sports, as the horticulturists say. Many new varieties 
arise in this way. The nectarine is simply a sm^ooth skinned peach, 
the result of a sporting bud. The King grape is a bud sport of the 
Concord. Both are propagated by budding or by cuttings, and re- 
produce their kind. If then, the more fruitful tree is the result of a 
bud variation, we may expect it to transmit that characteristic to its 
asexual posterity. If its fruitfulness is due to external influences, 
such as food, moisture, etc., then it can not be expected to transmit 
these characteristics to its asexual offspring. In other words, we 
must know the history of the parent before we can determine 
whether or not it will transmit such a characteristic as extraordinary 
fruitfulness to nursery stock propagated from it. 

Such questions, the would-be grower of fruit trees for his own 
use, must take into consideration and decide for himself until more 
definite proofs are at hand. 



Member. How about the insect troubles ? 

Prof. Wright. The orchardist has as many insect troubles to 
look after as the nurseryman. It can be sprayed with the same 
spraying machine as we use in the orchard. 



49 



Member. How about growing in a block ? 

Prof. Wright. Unless we leave out several rows, we have to 
have a special spraying apparatus. 

Member. Have you had an opportunity to see how the French 
Apple Stock is working out? 

Prof. Wright. I know there is a great deal of French Stock 
being used, and I believe it is good. 

Member. Do you prefer trees root-grafted or budded ? 

Prof. Wright. I prefer them root-grafted. 

Member. Why ? 

Prof. Wright. I was brought up in a country where the win- 
ters were pretty severe, and we were pretty particular about using 
the Long Scion and the short root, so that the trees would be on 
their own roots. In your climate it is not so necessary. 

Member. Will a budded tree come into bearing sooner? 

Prof. Wright. I think not. 

Member. Do you know of any nurseryman who is producing 
his own Peach seeds ? 

Prof. Wright. No, I do not happen to know any. 

Member. How many cuts would you make of one seedling? 

Prof. Wright. That would depend entirely upon tl^e length 
of the root. 

Member. Do you think the third and fourth would as good 
as the first? 

Prof. Wright. It would not make as strong growing a tree 
the first season. 

Member. Would you think it any advantage in growing peach 
seeds in orchard where they are to stay, and budding afterward ? 

Prof. Wright. It would be an advantage ; but there would be 
the disadvantage of having that ground lying practically idle while 
the seedling is growing. 

Member. Would there be any advantage to the life of the 
orchard? 

Prof. Wright. The tree would not have to be dug up and 
re-set. If it were grown in the nursery it would lose a half or two- 
thirds of its roots in the process of transplanting. 

Member. In the case of the two roots you showed last, I 
think I should prefer even the fourth cut on the large root, to the 
first on the small one. 

Member. Is it not evident that the parent of the seedling af- 
fects its strength? 

Prof. Wright. It probably has a great deal to do with it. It is 
one of the reasons for one to grow his own seedlings. 

Member. Do you not think you would get a better root sys- 
tem from the budded stock than from root grafting? 

Prof. Wright. Yes, you probably would. 

Member. Do you consider it a very great disadvantage to 
have any of the roots taken off of the tree? 

Prof. Wright. No, I do not; provided the top is pruned to 
correspond. 

Member. If the farmer is to grow his own stock for planting, 
why would it not be better to develop his seedling before making the 
union with the variety he wants to inoculate. If you develop the 



50 



seedling three or four years, you know the character of the root on 
which you are grafting. 

Prof. Wright. It may be a good plan to do that way; but 
there would be the disadvantage, if you grew the seedling three or 
four years, that the root system would be difficult to dig and trans- 
plant. 

Member. What are the fungus diseases of nursery stock? 

Prof. Wright. I am imable to answer. I have been in this 
state only four or five months. Think Mr. Tyson can answer that 
very well ; think he has grown some nursery stock. 

Chester J. Tyson. I do not think there are any serious ones 
except the root gall. 

Member. How about Pear Blight? 

Mr. Tyson. I have never seen it in nursery stock. 

Member. Would you recommend growing Pear Seedlings ? 

Prof. Wright. I should hesitate to grow my own Pear Seed- 
lings ; I would buy pear stock. 

Prof. Watts. Mr. Chairman, I should like to say just a little 
on this subject. There seems to be a great deal of theorizing on the 
propagation of trees. As the result of experiments made by the 
Department of Agriculture, it was found by actual measurement of 
the height of trees planted eleven or twelve years, and measurement 
of the diameter of the trunks of these trees, that the piece root is 
just as good as the whole root. The more vigorous the root; the 
more vigorous the tree will be. If you graft on the smaller piece 
root, or on the smaller whole root, the probabilities are that you will 
have a smaller tree. 

You have men here in this convention who have had experience 
in bud selection. Bud selection will be given a great deal more at- 
tention in the future than it has received in the past. 

Member. There is nothing in bud selection as far as I am 
concerned. 

Prof. Watts. I should a great deal rather take chances in 
planting an orchard from stock I know something about than from 
trees I know nothing at all about. Mr. Powell claims that he has a 
special strain of the Rhode Island Greening, as well as two or three 
other varieties ; and it is held by Mr. Powell and others, that they 
are superior to others. There is more in bud selection than we think; 
we have neglected to get it out. 

Member. How about root selection? 

Prof. Watts. I do not know anything about it. 

Mr. Earl Peters. Mr. President : I think this is one of the most 
important things in Adams County. I do not know anything of 
seedlings. I have grown some nursery stock. I have watched the 
conditions in the orchard very closely, and we find something there 
that has not been answered yet. Whether we can ever answer it is 
a problem ; but I have been thinking about it very seriously for more 
than a year — the method of selection of apple seedlings. These 
methods most certainly affect our interests. In a ten-year-old or- 
chard, for instance, we have a certain diameter of tree that we look 
upon as a standard for that age of trees; but we find, say three- 
tenths of the trees, standing here and there, with a smaller diameter. 



51 



far less vig'oroiis, and not yieklino- nearly so much fruit as the other 
trees. It is a pretty hard problem to solve. 

I would rather have the fourth cut from the seedling of a good., 
vigorous variety ; I would rather develop a seedling for three or four 
years to find out what it is, than to have the whole root of that other 
little fellow, and especially when I do not know what it is. I would 
rather have the fourth cut of a seedling of some good, strong grow- 
ing red winter sort, than to have the whole root of the other, and 
more so, if it chanced to be a seedling of a Yellow Transparent and 
I wanted to top work it to Stark, Stayman, or other winter sort. I 
have seen tests by top grafting in this section. I have known cases 
where winter varieties were grafted on early kinds; and when the 
season for the early variety arrived, the apples top-worked began 
to drop. 

The nurseryman has not been able to command sufficient prices 
to enable him to handle his goods in this expensive way. If the 
farmer is to grow his trees and to do his own propagating, let him 
develop his seedlings for two or three years. If he would grow a 
hundred for four years, and then were to only get twenty-five that 
exactly suited him, out of the lot, he could afiford to discard all the 
others and it would pay him. 

There are several points to be considered in the selection of 
seedlings for our orchards here in Adams County — and we are be- 
ginning to learn something of the tendencies of trees and growth. 
We should heed foliage, condition of growth, the nature of the 
growth, that is, the characteristics of the tree, whether they are 
strong and vigorous, or whether they are weak and slow growing, 
whether the foliage is subject to scab and fungus diseases, and 
whether it is upright in its habits, or whether it is knotty. 

Member. Would you regard the vigor of the tree as the most 
essential thing? 

Mr. Peters. Yes ; however, it would be better also to discover 
something of its variety than to select the seeds promiscuously. If 
the orchardist is to use apple seedlings at all, he is justified in grow- 
ing his own seedlings. He should not use Summer Rambo and 
Early Ripe seedlings, if he is going to grow Baldwins, and later 
winter varieties. If he wants to have an apple with good red cheeks, 
I do not see how he is going to get it by grafting on Rambo or 
Baltzley. Live stock is not produced that way. 

Member. Doesn't this raise the question of the efifects of the 
stock on the scion? 

Mr. Bassett. Now you have gotten into deep water again. 
Professor -Gulley, of Connecticut, carried on experiments there that 
proved to him, and to others that saw the work, that the actual re- 
sult of the work on the scion was nil. In regard to this root-graft 
he said that the root system is simply a feeder for the bud or scion. 
If the cook in my kitchen is a colored lady, it doesn't necessarily 
follow that I must develop into a colored man, does it ? 

Member. If it is sufficient to effect that bud or that scion, is 
that not sufficient to effect the fruit? 

Mr. Bassett. I do not understand that it partakes of the na- 
ture of the root ; and if you graft on Grime's Golden, I do not think 
you will get any less color. I know George T. Powell, of New 



52 



York, argues that he has a strain of fruit he thinks is affected by the 
stock on which it is grafted ; but the experiments carried on by Mr. 
Gulley does not sustain that. 

E. C. Tyson. Is it not Mr. Poweh's plan to set his trees deeply 
enough to get roots from the scion? 

Mr. Bassett. I think so. 

Mr. Anderson. Mr. Chairman : I have been listening to the 
discussion of raising our own trees. I do not think it would be wise 
for us to undertake it. I believe the average nurseryman is honest, 
I have faith in him. I believe raising nursery stock should be a 
special business ; I think he can raise better trees at much less ex- 
pense than the farmer can. Rabbits and mice will get into the little 
nursery patch and eat it right up. The nurseryman can afford to 
have a nursery better protected against such enemies ; and he can 
afford to have the best soil adapted to his business. We haven't all 
got that. I was in a nursery lately where the nurseryman grew his 
own orchards in order to get his buds and I was much pleased with 
all I saw. He did not take any grafts or buds from a tree that was 
not true to its type and a perfect specimen. Trees in the same or-, 
chard of the same variety are not always equal in quality. When 
the nurseryman has his fruit orchards, he can select his buds and 
grafts from special trees. You see, he is right onto the job, and he 
can grow that tree better and cheaper than we can do it. 

Now, about grafts not coming true to type. I have done consid- 
erable grafting, and in only one case was it not true to type. 

In these days we must be specialists ; and the man who has an 
orchard and studies his business, is the man who will come out best. 

Mr. M. G. Kaines, Associate Editor of the "American 
Agriculturist." Mr. President: There is one thing that has 
not been brought out yet. It seems to me there is no question about 
getting just what you want in the way of selection. If you have, we 
will say, a Northern Spy tree, or if your neighbor has a Northern 
Spy, that is better than any Northern Spy with which you are ac- 
quainted, you can get buds from his tree at a very small expense. 
You can present them to your nurseryman, and have him grow the 
trees for you on the kind of stocks you stipulate. Any nurser}aTian 
will agree to raise trees on contract. I happen to know of one 
nurseryman in western New York who is doing that. He did not 
at first want to undertake the work himself as a speculation; and 
so the man who wanted to have a certain class of stock produced, 
made his contract with this man to produce it. The fruit grower 
supplied the buds and the nurseryman produced the trees ; and so far 
as I know, every detail of that transaction was agreed to before the 
work was undertaken. The last report I have had on the subject is 
that they have been satisfactory to both the nurseryman and the 
fruit grower. Some of the stock has been planted in the orchard, 
and is doing well. It happens to be dwarf stock, now in bearing at 
Mr. George T. Powell's, at Ghent, N. Y. As I said, they are dwarfs 
— Red Astrachan trees, not quite so high as I am, which have pro- 
duced a box of fine specimens to the tree, — and they are only three 
years old. 

As to bud selection, I know of Mr. Powell's experiment in grow- 
ing King trees of particular types. Mr. Powell went all over western 



53 



New York to find a King tree better than any other King tree. I do 
not remember how long he was at that, but for some years. At last 
he found just the type of tree he wanted ; and as he was afraid 
there would be sun scald or injury to the trunks — the King is sub- 
ject to that in northern New York — Mr. Powell top-worked the 
King buds on either Northern Spy or Tolman Sweet bodies ; I think 
the former. The trees have now been in bearing for several years, 
and the character of the fruit in that orchard is practically uniform. 
Each package, you may say, is like every other package ; every ap- 
ple like every other apple ; and that has a great influence on the sale 
of his fruit. The fruit is graded before the blossoms 
appear. You understand what I mean by that? The 
buds are all from the same individual tree. He has good, sturdy, 
healthy trunks in his King orchard. The trees are almost alike. 
They, of course, have been well-trained from the begninning. Now, 
whether it will pay to top-work on an extensive scale I am not pre- 
pared to say. It seems to me there would be a needless check to 
growth and loss of time. This is shown by the work of Mr. Samuel 
Fraser, of Geneseo, N. Y. What appears to me as most practical is 
the selection of buds from specially useful trees of desirable varieties 
for the locality, and putting these at once upon vigorous roots in the 
nursery. Mr. Fraser has done this with several thousand trees now 
two or three years old, I believe, and is well pleased with the looks 
of his orchard. 



INTER-CROPPING OF YOUNG ORCHARDS WITH SPE- 
CIAL REFERENCE TO ADAMS COUNTY. 



Proi^. R. L. Watts, Department of Horticulture, State College, Pa. 

The development of young orchards is a business proposition. 
There is an aesthetic side to the enterprise, but primarily orchards are 
planted for profit and not for pleasure. 

The paramount question in the minds of most prospective fruit 
growers is. What investment is required to bring an orchard into 
profitable bearing ? Hundreds of people do not plant orchards because 
of the financial burden in caring for them before they begin to 
yield returns. On the other hand, a host of men in this state have 
planted trees with the full intention of giving them the proper care, 
but have failed largely because the necessary funds were lacking. 
I am personally acquainted with young men who would like to en- 
gage in fruit culture, but the expenditures demanded before there 
is any return is a serious barrier. The capitalist is just as much 
interested in this question. Three men from a Pennsylvania city 
visited State College recently and said they had $25,000 to invest in 
the development of a great commercial orchard, but they much pre- 
ferred a plan and policy which would not call for the spending of 
the entire sum. 

Planters should bear in mind that every year added to the age 
of a well-cared-for orchard of approved varieties enhances its value. 
There is an increasing number of men who are willing to pay a lib- 
eral price for young orchards that have not reached a bearing age, 



54 



and with this knowledge, growers should not hesitate to plant trees 
and follow approved methods in their care. Any plan, however, 
which will reduce the cash outlay in growing a young orchard will 
be welcomed by all classes of fruit growers. 

The Aim. 

In the development of young orchards, the aim should be to 
grow the very best trees at a minimum cost. Any plan of culture 
which does not have this high purpose should be condemned. The 
growing of crops between the trees is a secondary matter and should 
not at any time interfere with such treatment as will result in per- 
fectly healthy and properly grown trees. 

Inter-cropping in orchards has not been popular with the rank 
and file of orchardists, mainly for three reasons. First, it has been 
claimed that the trees need all the plant food naturally furnished by 
the soil and any additional amount that the grower might be able 
to supply, and that the cultivation of companion crops necessarily 
robs the trees. This is a weak arg'ument and many instances might 
be cited where ample food has been supplied for both trees and com- 
panion crops, which of course is absolutely essential to success, both 
from the standpoint of the orchard and of the inter-tillage crops. 
Second, it has been claimed that tillage is interfered with when 
crops are grown between the trees. This may or may not be true. 
It depends upon the character of the crop selected and also upon 
the method and frequency of cultivation. By choosing the right crop 
and by giving it the right kind of tillage the trees will not suffer from 
lack of cultivation. Third, the most justifiable reason for not inter- 
cropping is that it places additional irons in the fire, some of which 
are likely to be burned. To engage in market gardening or potato 
culture on a large scale in connection with orcharding requires con- 
siderable executive ability. Not all men can succeed in handling 
garden crops on a large scale and at the same time give the trees 
proper attention. 

Inter-Cropping Becoming More Popular. 

In recent years, however, inter-cropping is becoming more pop- 
ular. It is not difficult to cite instances where the plan has been 
worked out with entire success. One of the best examples is that 
of the well known horticulturist, Mr. H. C. Suavely, Lebanon, Pa. 
Mr. Suavely was formerly chairman of the General Fruit Committee 
of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, and he is recognized as 
one of the most intelligent and successful orchardists in the state. 
In 1907 Mr. Suavely planted four rows of potatoes thirty-four 
inches apart, using the variety known as Carman No. 3, between 
the peach trees which were set at standard distances. The land 
previous to the setting of trees was plowed very deep and thoroughly 
harrowed. Ne fertilizer was used for the trees at the time of plant- 
ing, but 1,000 pounds of 2-8-7 mixture was applied in drills for the 
potatoes. Thorough tillage was given during the season. The po- 
tatoes were planted April 5th. From twelve acres, 2,000 bushels of 
potatoes were harvested and the trees made a most satisfactory 
growth. The trees for tMs orchard were the largest that could be 



55 



secured, some measuring eight feet in height at the time of planting. 
In 1908 potatoes were again planted, but on account of severe drouth, 
only 860 bushels were harvested. The growth of the peach trees 
the second season was also satisfactory. I have not heard directly 
from Mr. Suavely this, year, but I understand that he harvested a 
fine crop of peaches. Mr. Suavely has told me repeatedly that he 
never saw a finer young orchard. 

It is a pleasure to call attention to inter-cropping as practiced 
by Horace Roberts, Moorestown, N. J. Mr. Roberts purchased his 
first farm some years ago and was unable to make a single payment 
on the place. He had barely enough capital to stock the farm with 
tools and a few animals. The success of his operations is almost 
phenomenal for he now owns nine farms and he is a comparatively 
young man. Mr. Roberts is known as an orchardist as well as a 
market gardener and his success must be attributed largely to inter- 
cropping in the orchards. The general policy is to buy a farm when 
the price is right and to plant all or part of it with fruit trees. 
Peaches, apples, pears, plums and cherries are grown extensively 
on the Roberts' farm, and inter-tillage crops are used in all the 
plantations. In a number of instances it has been possible to pay 
for the places from the profits of two seasons. Expenses of the 
young orchards as well as of the entire farm are more than paid 
from the outset, and it should also be noted that the farms become 
more valuable because of the starting of young orchards and of the 
improvement in soil fertility. Many other growers within easy 
reach of Philadelphia markets have been practicing companion crop- 
ping with success. The most common practice on the Roberts farms 
is to plant peas as early as possible in the spring, following with such 
crops as tomatoes, sweet corn, muskmelons, cucumbers, watermel- 
ons, potatoes and other crops that may be sold to advantage in 
Philadelphia. Most of the farms are about eleven miles from the 
city and nearly all produce is marketed by wagon. 

Principles Involved. 

In deciding as to the kind of crop which is best adapted to any 
particular location, the following points should be considered : 

( 1 ) The equipment and capital required. The growing of such 
crops as peas, sweet corn and potatoes would require a very much 
smaller outlay for equipment than early cabbage and early tomatoes 
which must be started under glass. Practically all farms have the 
tools necessary for the growing of potatoes, although if undertaken 
on a large scale it would be necessary to secure planters and har- 
vesters, while one "could not expect to grow early cabbage and early 
tomatoes on a large scale without extensive areas devoted to hotbeds, 
cold frames and perhaps greenhouses. 

(2) The natural bent or inclination of the grower should be 
taken into account. Many people who are very fond of fruit culture 
would not make a success in growing vegetables because these crops 
do not appeal to them. This is a most important factor and should 
not be ignored by the individual or the community. 

(3) Inter-cropping requires more labor than when no crops 
are grown between the trees. This may or may not be a serious 



S6 

factor. If the grower possesses sufficient skill to make a success in 
the growing of vegetables or other companion crops he can well 
afford to pay for labor in competition with other classes of pro- 
ducers. 

(4) A most important factor to be carefully considered is the 
question of markets and marketing. On account of easy access to 
a large market, the growers of I\Ioorestown possess special advan- 
tages over persons operating remote from large centers of popula- 
tion. Although these men are within easy driving distances of 
Philadelphia, much time of the men and horses is required to cart 
the produce to market. If a good shipping trade is developed it 
possesses special advantage in requiring very little time for the de- 
livery of vegetables at the railroad siding. 

(5) Some crops which might be grown between fruit trees re- 
quire more skillful management than others. This factor is well 
worth the consideration of the orchardist. His time and thought 
are needed in caring for the trees and if inter-tillage crops can be 
selected which are simple to cultivate, it will be a decided advantage. 

(6) When the growers of a given community desire to engage 
in the growing of inter-crops, it would be a great advantage to de- 
cide upon a few crops that best meet the requirements of the local- 
ity. To make such an enterprise a success, those crops should be 
selected which require the least skill unless there is assurance that 
more difficult crops can be grown successfully. 

(7) Crops should be grown for which there is a large demand. 
Potatoes are especially desirable because this vegetable is consumed 
in very large quantities. From the standpoint of demand, cabbage 
probably ranks second, and tomatoes third. 

(8) It is an advantage to select crops that have the fewest 
enemies to combat and which may be controlled without great dif- 
ficulty. Looking at the matter from this standpoint, the tomato is 
one of our best crops, especially if rotation is practiced. 

(9) Other things being equal, it is important to select crops 
which will interfere the least with spraying. Crops with erect habit 
of growth will permit the use of spray machinery, while those of a 
straggling nature would not allow the use of carts or wagons with- 
out damage to the companion crop. 

(10) The location is a most important factor in deciding the 
crops which should be grown between the trees. It is especially im- 
portant to select those which are adapted to your soil t3'pe. Some 
crops, as cabbage, have a much wider adaptation than others. The 
quality of the companion crop will depend largely upon the character 
of the soil. A large crop of potatoes might be grown successfully 
on limestone soils, but they lack quality as compared with tubers 
grown on sandstone. Early tomatoes are smoother and more regu- 
lar when grown on the lighter soils. The question of exposure 
should be considered with reference to this problem. In orchards 
having trees on sunny slopes, the growing of early crops as peas, 
cabbage and tomatoes might well be considered, while it would 
probably be futile for fruit growers on northern slopes to attempt 
the culture of these crops. The steepness of the land must also be 
considered. It is impracticable to grow on steep hillsides crops re- 
quiring frequent tillage. 



57 



(11) It is desirable to select crops which have the same fertil- 
izer and tillage requirements as the trees under culture. Cabbage, 
for example, is not a desirable crop to grow in peach orchards, be- 
cause it requires more nitrogen than is required by peach trees. 
On the other hand, there could be little objection to the growing 
of this crop in apple orchards, provided the soil is well filled with 
humus. The moisture requirements for certain inter-tillage crops 
is perhaps the most serious objection to their use. Cabbage, for ex- 
ample, contains ninety-eight and a half pounds of water, and unless 
the water absorbing and holding power of the soil is great the trees 
may suffer on account of lack of moisture. This difficulty, however, 
can be overcome by supplying humus in sufficient quantity and by 
early and frequent tillage. 

(12) Companion crops which make their growth and require 
tillage early in the season are the most suitable for the orchard. 

(13) The duration of growth or time of harvesting is also im- 
portant. The successful management of orchards requires the 
maintenance of vegetable matter and those crops which can be har- 
vested and sold before the proper time to sow cover crops are, other 
points being equal, the most desirable. Peas, early cabbage and 
early potatoes meet this requirement. 

(14) Companion crops should be selected if possible which 
permit thorough tillage and as late in the season as may be best for 
the welfare of the trees. This matter can be controlled to a con- 
siderable extent by allowing a liberal amount of space between the 
rows. 

15. The net profits from companion cropping should be the main 
factor in deciding as to what crops should be grown provided the 
cultivation of such crops is entirely favorable to the growth of the 
trees. The skillful management of crops which require starting un- 
der glass, as early cabbage and early tomatoes would certainly re- 
turn larger profits per acre than potatoes although the growing and 
harvesting of the crops would require much more attention. 

Directions For Growing Companion Crops. 

Szveet Corn, and especially the early varieties may be grown 
with entire success in young orchards without detriment to the trees. 
By planting the early varieties in thoroughly drained soils wdiich have 
been well enriched by the plowing down of clover sods and the ap- 
plication of manure along with high grade fertilizer, the crop would 
be harvested in ample time to start cover crops. Some of the best 
varieties for this purpose are Crosby, White Cob Corry, Premo. 
Fordhook First and Golden Bantam. Later varieties may be grown 
with entire success, but the crop is harvested rather late for sowing 
cover crops. 

SniaU Fruits may be used as companion crops in orchards, but 
are undesirable because they require tillage later in the season than 
is favorable to starting cover crops. I see no reason, however, why 
the bush fruits could not be grown in the orchards of Adams County, 
using each year a legume as cow peas which would be killed by frost 
and which add materially to the supply of vegetable matter. Soy 
beans are better adapted to clay soils. They made a much larger 



58 

growth at State College in Hagerstown clay loam than cow peas. 
None of the small fruits, however, are generally regarded as good 
inter-tillage crops for the orchard. 

Peas meet the requirements so far as the trees are concerned, 
better than any other vegetable. They add nitrogen and vegetable 
matter to the soil when the vines are plowed down and do not draw 
heavily upon the supply of mineral elements. The earliest varieties 
should be used and planted just as soon as the ground can be pre- 
pared. The largest yields are procured by the free use of seed and 
thorough cultivation. 

Tomatoes, when the bulk of the crop is off before the middle of 
August or the first of September, is a desirable crop. It is im- 
portant to use an early variety such as Earliana and grow strong, 
stocky plants, carrying a cluster or two of flowers, which are set in 
the field as early in the season as the locality will permit. This is im- 
portant because yields are larger from early set plants and the profits 
are certainly larger from the earliest crop. If necessary, nitrate of 
soda may be used soon after planting to stimulate growth and it 
may also be an advantage to the trees. 

Early Cabbage may be grown without detriment to the trees, 
provided the crop is manured and fertilized as liberally as possible, 
to make it a success as well as to furnish the trees with needed plant 
food. The best variety is Jersey Wakefield, securing seed from a 
house which has an improved strain. If a larger variety is wanted, 
use Charleston Wakefield. In Adams County the seed should be 
sown not later than the middle of January, transplanting to the cold 
frames when the plants are four or five weeks old, and setting the 
well hardened plants in the field as soon as the weather will per- 
mit. The profits from this crop are large when it is properly 
handled. 

Early Potatoes are exceedingly desirable for this purpose. All 
points considered, we probably have no crop which is so valuable 
for companion cropping. The advantages are the small cost of 
equipment for growing the crop ; soil and fertilizer requirements are 
very much the same as for most fruits ; it must have the same amount 
and the same kind of tillage as is favorable to tree growth ; there is 
a large demand for this product ; it is a simple crop to grow as well 
as to harvest and market ; and the crop matures in ample time to fol- 
low with crimson clover or other hardy legume. To make the crop 
a full success, great care should be exercised in preparing the soil 
and firm seed should be planted as early as possible in the spring. 
There should be no delay in harvesting the crop after it has reached 
marketable size. 



Chester J. Tyson. Do you think early sweet corn well adapted 
to the shipping trade? 

Prof. Watts. I see no reason why it is not. It is shipped in 
large quantities to most of our cities before the local crop is ready 
for market. Our most successful growers count on one hundred dol- 
lars gross receipts per acre. The fodder is often utilized for feed, 
and it is of greatest value perhaps when used as silage. As high as 
three hundred dollars per acre is realized sometimes when the plants 



59 



are started under glass and transplanted to the open. So far as the 
trees are concerned, I see no reason why early sweet corn should not 
be grown. 

Mr. Tyson. Where would you look for a market ? 

Prof. Watts. Cities in northern districts should furnish a mar- 
ket for a considerable quantity. 

Member. Give us a few pointers if you know. 

Prof. Watts. The growing of this or any other crop on a 
large scale in your orchards would probably necessitate organization. 
It is important for your men to get together and then ship your pro- 
duce in car load lots, being careful not to flood any particular market. 

Member. How is corn shipped? 

Prof. Watts. It is best handled in iced cars. If not packed 
too closely, however, and if the shipping facilities are good, the corn 
may be packed in crates and ventilated barrels and reach the destina- 
tion in good condition. 

Member. Would you plant raspberries in peach orchards ? 

Prof. Watts. I am glad you asked me that question. I would 
not ; because the raspberries would give practically no return be- 
fore the peach trees should need all of the ground. 

Member. We were not successful in planting these two crops 
together. 

Prof. Watts. Did the berries thrive? 

Member. The raspberries did fairly well, but the peaches did 
not. The peaches got the yellows. 

Prof. Watts. I do not think the raspberries should be blamed 
for the yellows, but I do not advocate the planting of raspberries in 
peach orchards. It makes cultivation more difficult, and unless til- 
lage is thorough the peach trees might be come weakened and more 
subject to yellows. I had apples in mind rather than peaches when 
speaking of inter-cropping-. 

Member. Could late potatoes be harvested in time to start a 
cover crop? 

Prof. Watts. If the potatoes are out by the first of September 
you would have time to start cover crop, especially if rye is used. 
This crop could be started much later than the first of September 
and get sufficient growth for safe wintering. 

Member. Would the first of September be time enough to sow 
soja beans? 

Prof. Watts. It would be too late, and also too late for crim- 
son clover. 

Member. How about rye ? 

Prof. Watts. This crop could be sown with success as late as 
the loth of October and probably later, but there would not be much 
growth before winter. As the land should be plowed as soon as dry 
enough in the spring, it is important to secure a large growth in 
the fall. 

C. J. Tyson. Do you think you could grow early cabbage 
plants to correspond with the ones you buy much cheaper than three- 
dollars per thousand? 

Prof. Watts. I do not think so. I would not like to grow them 
for much less. 



6o 



C. J. Tyson. In a community where a dozen growers get to- 
gether, which would be the most profitable, early cabbage or early 
sweet corn, either lOo acres of cabbage or lOO acres of sweet corn? 

Prof. Watts. I think the early cabbage would be more profit- 
able. It offers greater possibilities, although the sweet corn would 
probably meet all expenses in developing the orchard. I do not think 
it necessary to care for an orchard ten years without making a 
profit on the cultivation of such land. With skillful management, I 
believe it is possible to buy a farm, plant it with trees and pay for 
this farm and all expenses incidental to this orchard by the time it 
comes into bearing. Some men have done this. 

Member. In case you plant sweet corn, potatoes or cabbage, 
how much fertilizer would you use ? 

Prof. Watts. Sweet corn and cabbage require more nitrogen 
than potatoes. It is not usual to apply more than 4 or 5 per cent of 
nitrogen for any of these crops. For early cabbage and sweet corn,, 
a ton of fertilizer carrying four per cent nitrogen, eight per cent 
phosphoric acid and 10 per cent potash should give satisfactory re- 
sults. 

Member. How should a fertilizer be applied. 

Prof. Watts. Most of it should be used broadcast before plant- 
ing. If the soil is thin, one-fourth of the amount can be used to ad- 
vantage in the furrows before planting. 

Member. How about hillsides and rocky land for inter-crop- 
ping? 

Prof. Watts. Inter-cropping should not be practiced on such 

land. 

Member. Should you mulch ? 

Prof. Watts. Yes, I should mulch land that is hard to culti- 
vate, but it is doubtful whether mulching is effective in growing 
peaches. 

Mr. Anderson. The orchard should be cultivated both ways. 

Prof. Watts. This could be done by planting in check rows. 

Mr. Anderson. How far apart would you plant potatoes? 

Prof. Watts. They could be planted 30 x 30, with careful 
marking' and a steady horse to cultivate. Several pieces should be 
planted in each hill. 

Member. You cannot use a machine in planting if you put 
several in a hill. 

Prof. Watts. This is true, but hand planting is not such a 
tedious operation as some suppose. It is not many years since prac- 
tically all our potatoes were planted by hand and a few highly suc- 
cessful growers of to-day prefer hand planting. 

Member. What kind of fertilizer do you recommend, especially 
for large trees ? 

Prof. Watts. I think you have some orchard men here. Pro- 
fessor Wright, will you answer that question? 

Prof. Wright. As a matter of fact, if I were fertilizing an 
orchard, especially a cultivated one, I should try to use a leguminous 
crop every other year in preference to buying nitrogen. Of course 
a fruit crop does not require as much nitrogen as a grain crop, but 
most of our soils are deficient in phosphorous and potash. If I 
were growing an orchard of my own, I should not put on much fer- 



tilizer in the form of nitrogen, but should expect to get that from 
cover crops. I would supply the phosphates and potash in about 
equal quantities. I do not think you can afford to buy nitrogen 
when you can buy it in the form of leguminous crops. 

Member. What does our Michigan friend say about that? 

Mr. Bassett. In our orchard management there is one thing 
about this leguminous crop that appeals to us more than any other. 
We have tried to get results from Clover in one year, but have failed 
in this. The trouble is that it does not mature sufficiently in a season 
to take up and store very much nitrogen. It would not do to put the 
clover in in the fall and plow under the next spring, — the little 
nodules that secrete the nitrogen have not matured sufficiently to 
contain much of it. We give the clover an extra season to mature, 
and then turn it under. This we do about one year in five. The 
others we have clean tillage. We usually use phosphate also, in the 
form of bone; and these are the most satisfactory; but, as the pro- 
fessor says, we cannot afford to buy nitrogen at the present price, 
when we can grow cover. We usually try to grow clover in our 
Baldwin orchard the year of its non-fruiting, and this sometimes 
interferes with the setting of the fruit buds. 

Member. Do you use Mammoth or Red Clover? 

Mr. Bassett. We use both. 

Member. Did you ever try the crimson clover as a cover crop ? 
Mr. Bassett. It is the crimson we use. 

Member. Do you get plenty of nitrogen from the Mammoth ? 

Mr. Bassett. We get nitrogen ; but they do not mature suffi- 
ciently to be turned under the first season. 

J. W. Anderson. Mr. Chairman : I would like to say a word 
about Crimson Clover. We are considerably father south than our 
Michigan friend. In our section (York County) we are not much 
farther south than you, in Adams County, and in this latitude Crim- 
son Clover will make such a growth in one season that it will be a 
great benefit to the land. A good many farmers sow Crimson Clover 
in their corn at the last working. I have seen circular patches in the 
oats the following season where the straw was much shorter than 
that surrounding it, caused by the Crimson Clover being smothered, 
in the fall, by the corn shocks. I am afraid Crimson Clover has been 
greatly neglected. It will do you a lot of good to grow it. I know 
this by actual experience, and there are many others who think as 
I do on this subject. 

Prof. Watts. I would like to make one point in connection 
with Crimson Clover. It should be started early. 

Mr. Anderson. The last working of corn does well with us. 

Mr. Repp. It is the practice in Freehold, N. J., to follow the 
potato crop with Crimson Clover. 



62 



SOME EXPERIMENTS WITH COMMERCIAL LIME SUL- 
PHUR AS A SPRAY FOR FRUIT DISEASES. 



By H. H. Whe:tzkl, Professor of Plant Pathology, New York State 
College of Agriculture. 



During the winter of 1908-09 there was much demand from 
fruit growers for recommendations regarding the use of hme sul- 
phur solutions as a summer spray. Plant Pathologists generally, 
particularl}^ here in the East, advised growers to go slowly. If they 
desired to try these solutions experimentally on a few trees, good 
and well; but all were advised against the general use of this on 
the foliage of their trees, until pathologists had time to determine 
whether this could be done with safety and efficiency. The experi- 
ments of Cordely in Oregon using the home boiled concentrated mix- 
ture, and the work of Scott of the U. S. Department of Agriculture 
with his self boiled lime sulphur, had been reported in the Horticul- 
tural press and our Eastern growers wanted to know why it wouldn't 
work here. This demand for information on the subject was the 
more pressing for the reason that many growers had experienced 
heavy losses from burning or russeting of the fruit by the Bor- 
deaux. Naturally they were interested in a substitute that appeared 
to be equally effective and at the same time free from the faults that 
condemned the Bordeaux. 

In order to get some data on the value of lime sulphur as a 
substitute for Bordeaux when used under our conditions in the 
State of New York, wt undertook a series of experiments in an or- 
chard near Ithaca, in the spring of this year (1909). Mr. Wallace, 
a Fellow in the Department of Plant Pathology, had charge of this 
work and to him belongs all the credit of the remarkable progress 
\NQ have made on this problem this season. What I shall here re- 
port is chiefly the results of his work. 

The work was conducted in two orchards containing several 
varieties of apples, trees about 15 years old, with peach trees as 
fillers. AVork on three diseases only were undertaken, namely, 
Peach Leaf Curl, Apple Scab, and Brow^n Rot of the Peaches. A 
field laboratory was established at Mr. Frear's place, in whose or- 
chards the work was to be done. Commercial Lime Sulphur (Niag- 
ara Brand, heavy grade) w^as used as this was what Mr. Frear 
had already purchased for his winter spraying. Mr. Frear fur- 
nished all materials, gasoline power sprayer, etc., and Mr. Wallace 
assisted in all the application made. The work was very thor- 
oughly done. 

Results on the Peach Leaf Curl. 

In these experiments comparisons were made between Bordeaux . 
3-3-50 and different dilutions of the Commercial Lime Sulphur. On 
account of heavy winds that blew constantly it was impossible to 
spray the trees from but one direction. However as thorough a 
job as possible under the circumstances, was done. The applica- 
tions were all made before the buds had swollen to any appreciable 
extent. Unsprayed check trees were left in every series of experi- 
ments. The results showed that the Lime Sulphur at any dilution 



63 

from I to 9 to I to 20 was more effective than the Bordeaux. The 
curled leaves on the unsprayed trees averaged from about 35 to 60 
per cent, while on those sprayed with lime sulphur they averaged from 
I to 6 per cent only. On the trees sprayed with the Bordeaux an aver- 
age of about 8 per cent of the leaves showed curl. More copper in the 
Bordeaux might have been more effective. These results are not 
especially new or striking, as it has long been known that lime sul- 
phur as applied for scale will also effectively control the curl. They 
serve, however, to again confirm the results of earlier investigators 
and to demonstrate to the grower the value of lime sulphur for the 
control of this disease. This is particularly important, as most 
growers are now compelled to spray for the scale and any solution 
that will answer both purposes at the same time means a great sav- 
ing in time and money. Reports from a large number of peach 
growers all over the state, last spring, indicate that any of the brands 
of commercial lime sulphur or the home boiled mixtures used as for 
scale will successfully prevent the leaf curl. 

Results on Apple Scab. 

The trees selected for these experiments were Rhode Island 
Greenings. The lime sulphur was used at a dilution of 1-30. The 
Bordeaux was made to the formula 3-4-50. In each case arsenate 
of lead was used at the rate of three pounds to 50 gallons of the 
mixture. Six trees were left unsprayed as checks ; six were sprayed 
with the Bordeaux and arsenate of lead ; five were sprayed with the 
Lime Sulphur and arsenate of lead. The two mixtures were ap- 
plied in each case on the same day, with the same pressure (about 
125 pounds) and with equal thoroughness. Some of the trees were 




Fig. I. Greenings from the unsprayed check .rees 
showing the fruit just as it run on the trees. All of 
these apples were taken from a single limb. All of 
the injury is not due to apple scab. Insects were re- 
sponsible for much of the injury. 42 per cent, of the 
apples on the check trees were affected with the scab. 

sprayed once, just before the blossoms opened. Some were sprayed 
twice, just before the blossoms opened, and again just after they 
had fallen. Some were sprayed but once, just after the blossoms 
had fallen. The results showed that in this orchard this season, the 
one spraying just after the blossoms fell was the all important one. 
The trees sprayed only just before the blossoms opened showed 
nearly as much scab as the checks. This does not indicate, however, 
that this spraying just before the blossoms open may not often be 



64 



very necessary. The apples on the table there indicate very well the 
average run of the fruit on the checks, the Bordeaux sprayed and 
the Lime Sulphur sprayed trees. Careful counts of all the apples on all 
the trees in the experiment showed at picking time that 42 per cent of 
the apples on the check trees were scabbed (See Fig. i), on the Bor- 
deaux trees this was reduced to 3 per cent, and on the Lime Sulphur 




Fig. 2. Greenings from the trees spraved with Bor- 
deaux and arsenate of lead. In the same orchard with 
the checlc trees shown in Fig-, i. Scab reduced to 
about 3 per cent., but about 82 per cent, of the fruit 
badly russeted. All the fruit in this basket taken 
from one limb of the tree and shows the fruit about 
as it runs on the trees. 

trees t-o 3.6 per cent. The Lime Sulphur was practically as effective 
in preventing the scab as was the Bordeaux. However, 82 per cent, 
of the apples on the trees sprayed with Bordeaux were russeted, i. e., 
injured by the mixture, and to so severe an extent as to much re- 
duce their market value (See Fig. 2). The apples sprayed with the 
Lime Sulphur showed less than 4 per cent of russeting of any kind, 
in striking contrast not only to the Bordeaux injured fruit, but also 




Fig. 3. Greenings sprayed with Lime Sulphur and arse- 
nate of lead. From a tree planted in the row next to those 
sprayed with Bordeaux and arsenate of lead. Scab re- 
duced to about 3 per cent. Less than 4 per cent, showing 
traces of russeting of any kind. All the apples from one 
limb just as they run on the trees. 

to the apples from the check trees, which showed 29 per cent of 
russeting, due perhaps to certain weather conditions. Why the Lime 
Sulphur sprayed fruit should have been so free from this natural 
russeting is not clear. No injury of any kind either to fruit or foliage 
resulted from the applications of the Lime Sulphur at the dilution of 
I to 30 (See Fig. 3). The experiments showed that no addition of 



65 



arsenate of lead to the Lime Sulphur not only did not cause injury 
to the foliage, but was as effective in controlling coddling moth as 
when used with the Bordeaux. The check trees showed 25 per cent 
wormy apples, while those sprayed with the Lime Sulphur and ar- 
senate of lead showed but 1.3 per cent as compared with 3.3 per 
cent on Bordeaux sprayed trees. 

Both Cordley and Scott report good results with Commercial 
Lime Sulphur for apple scab this past season. Cordley used the 
Niagara Brand, and Scott used three brands in his work, — the 
Grasselli, Thomsen Chemical Co., and Rex. Scott used arsenate of 
lead with the Lime Sulphur with safety, but had burning of the 
foliage where Paris Green was used with the Lime Sulphur. Scott's 
Self Boiled Lime Sulphur also gave excellent results for apple scab. 

Results on Brown Rot of Peaches. 

The results with the Lime Sulphur for Brown Rot have not yet 
been gotten together so as to give definite figures. Mr. Wallace 
found early in the season that a dilution of the Commercial Lime 
Sulphur of I -100 seriously burned peach foliage. Later he tried 
a dilution of 1-200 with no injury to the foliage and with a marked 
reduction in the amount of rot in the fruit. Three sprayings re- 
duced the rot from three to five times. The applications were made 
about ten .days apart, the last being applied shortly before picking. 
The commercial solution at this dilution has the advantage over the 
self boiled mixture of Scott in that it is much less expensive and will 
not stain the fruit. It can be applied the day before the fruit is 
picked. 

We are not recommending the general substitution of Lime 
Sulphur in place of the Bordeaux. We give you the results of one 
season's work. If you use the Lime Sulphur on your trees this com- 
ing summer it is with the risks involved in using a solution not yet 
thoroughly tested out, and whose peculiarities under different weath- 
er conditions is yet to be determined. That the Lime Sulphur has 
powerful fungicidal properties is certain. That it will not injure 
apples (when properly diluted) under conditions that produces 
russeting by the Bordeaux is shown by Mr. Wallace's experiments. 
That it is very probably the coming spray is not to be disputed in 
the light of the favorable reports from experimenters in the different 
fruit sections of the United States this season. 

Member. Is it just as safe to mix arsenate of lead with the 
self-boiled mixture as with the Commercial Lime Sulphur? 

Prof. Whetzel. Yes. 

Member. Do you know what time Scott makes his application 
for Peach Rot? 

Prof. Whetzel. No, I do not. I think he sprays from three 
to five times, beginning at the time the fruit is about the size of a 
hickory nut. 

Member. Professor, do you think, if you had an orchard of 
40 or 50 acres of peaches, you would spray with the self-boiled or 
with the Commercial Lime Sulphur? 

Prof. Whetzel. I would spray with Scott's self-boiled — he has 
used it three years. With the Commercial I would risk enough of 



66 



my trees to see what would happen. I do not recommend that you 
use Commercial Lime Sulphur on any of your trees, because, if any- 
thing went wrong, you would say, '''\Vhetzel got me into that 
trouble.'' 

Member. AMiat can you tell us about this fire-blight on 
Apples and Pears? 

Prof. Whetzel. I cannot tell you anything, except what has 
been told hundreds of times. As I told a man this morning, I will 
guarantee to deliver a hundred acres of Pears or Apples without the 
loss of any trees, or large limbs; and I will do nothing except to in- 
spect the trees regularly and take the blight out as fast as it ap- 
pears. 

Mr. Repp. I do not believe in warm weather this can be done ; 
the thing is, your infections come together; they are there before 
you can see them. 

Prof. Whetzel. Yes ; but it can be seen in time to save the 
trees. 

Mr. Repp. In this warm section here, the bacteria works fast. 
I can see how it can be done in New York State; it does not work 
as fast in that section as in this. 

Prof. Whetzel. The people in Xew York wouldn't believe it 
could work faster anywhere else. 

Mr. Bassett. I agree with Professor \Vhetzel that it can be 
controlled in this way. 

Mr. Vincent. I know of a case in Southern Oregon where the 
fire blight attacked a large orchard. The owner said it could not be 
controlled by cutting it out, consequently he did not fight it. His 
neighbors fought it, cutting it out wherever it appeared. They con- 
quered it; he lost 15,000 trees. 

Mr. Repp. Your method may be all right in your State; in 
this and Xew Jersey the trouble is that it starts in the bloom. 

Prof. Whetzel. That's where it always starts. 

Mr. Repp. How many men would you put on the work? 

Prof. Whetzel. How many men could you put in your or- 
chard ? 

Mr. Repp. Five or ten. 

Prof. Whetzel. You could put in twenty if you had to, couldn't 
you? 

Mr. Repp. But, Professor, you go over the trees, and think 
you have cleaned them all up ; the next day you go out, and they 
seem to be as bad as they were the day before. You have to go 
back ever}^ day ; you get discouraged, you lose faith. 

Prof. Whetzel. You have to go back every day until it is cut 
out. I know how you feel when the blight's been after you. They 
all feel that way. 

Mr. Fenstermacher. Professor AMietzel says his boys can tell 
the bHght before the grower would see it ; will he kindly give us 
some information, so that we could guard ourselves and protect 
ourselves ? 

Prof. Whetzel. If you will go with the boys and learn the 
trick, you can do it. There are certain early symptoms. As a mat- 
ter of fact, an ordinary- grower would not be likely to see it until 
the tree was half dead. The careful grower cannot see it much 



67 



sooner than from seven to ten days after infection. An expert — 
a blight chaser — can tell it in from five to six days. He could tell 
it in its very early stages. It causes a slight wilting of the tip. I 
know that Mr. Repp is skeptical. We would like to show him. I 
know I am safe. He is in New Jersey and I in New York, you see. 

Member. How would you treat canker? 

Prof. Whetzel. It depends on the kind of canker. 

Member. The kind that makes a spot rough and black on the 
limb. 

Prof. Whetzel. Is it particularly black and rough before the 
bark peels ? 

Member. Yes, the bark itself runs a circle. 

Prof. Whetzel. That's almost certainly the New York Apple 
Tree Canker, caused by a fungus. Black Rot Canker, or New York 
Canker, is common in Western New York, the Northeastern United 
States, and West as far as Iowa. It is very common. It is started 
by the fungus getting into some wound. It very frequently follows 
fire blight. The general opinion of the fruit growers in Western 
New York is that where they soak the limbs and body of the tree 
with Bordeaux Mixture, they are not particularly troubled. 

Member. Would Lime and Sulphur control it? 

Prof. Whetzel. I do not know. 

Member. What treatment do you advise for the Collar Rot? 

Prof. Whetzel. I would advise that you go over your trees 
carefully and frequently, and inspect the base of the trees. If you 
find there are spots in the bark, cut them out, disinfect and paint 
until they heal. 

Member. What disinfectant do you use ? 

Prof. Whetzel. Mercuric chloride — corrosive sublimate. 

Prof. Whetzel. Perhaps you people would be interested in the 
methods we are now using in the Department of Plant Pathology to 
solve the plant disease problems in the State of New York. All of 
the investigation work during the growing season is now being done 
in Field Laboratories in different parts of the State. We had seven 
of these Field Laboratories last season. Each man in the depart- 
ment who has a piece of investigation on hand (and every man in 
our department has his problem) goes into the particular locality 
where the disease he is studying is most apt to be abundant. He 
takes with him, a full equipment of laboratory apparatus, micro- 
scopes and materials, so that he can do everything that could be done 
in the laboratories at the college. And there he is right in the midst 
of the enemy, where he can see the disease in its various stages of 
development every day during the growing season. He learns to 
know the disease in its natural relations to the crop and the weather 
conditions which affect it so markedly. He also learns the crop, the 
diseases of which he is studying. He gets the grower's point of 
•view. He at once sees that measures which he proposes for con- 
trolling this malady must be not only theoretically correct, but prac- 
tically possible and profitable. He puts on his overalls, and blue 
shirt ; he rolls up his sleeves ; he tramps the orchard or fields in 
rain and blistering sun ; he learns to liye and deal with men, the men 
whose problems he is to solve ; he learns to respect the grower's ex- 
perience. And the grower, what of him? Four of our seven field 



68 



laboratories were supported last season by the growers, financially 
supported by them, you understand. One was maintained by a fel- 
lowship established by the Xiagara Spraver Company. If a gT-ower 
puts money into a proposition of - : ; ' he exr ec:- :: ge: :ur, 
He takes interest in the work whic/i i-ic ; : v.ng feh jw is dc-mg. Ke 
too gets a better acquaintance with this fungus that is giving him 
trouble. He sees it through the n:icrc?c jpe. He under-rands now 
the necessit}' for all these bottles, :/.;cs and tr:::-:v:- vhich the 
young plant doctor uses daily. He studies the weather f 'recj.-ts 
and recording instruments with as much zeal as the doctor -:i:::-c'-f. 
In short, he feels that this is his problem ai:' ' ':e ^vants to knc'W iiow 
it is solved. Better still he learns to respect anh value the skill and 
training of the college man. He sees the many dithculties and ob- 
stacles that stand between the plant doctor and the = :h.:ti:'r: of the 
problem. He learns to be patient with the ?' ; r ^ /c^- :^::d to 
make the most of every small gain. I belie-'e the Field Labor- 
atory' is the best means of working out the c?.u-e and control of the 
diseases of our crops. It brings together in sympathetic co-opera- 
tion the two men, plant doctor and grovrer. v.-ho together must meet 
and solve the problems. That this h: : : co-operation has ir.et 
with the approval of the growers is evilciiced b}' the fact that in 
evers^ case the}^ have arranged to continue and increase their sup- 
port for another season. The Department of Plant Patholog}' is 
thus training a fine corps of men, specialists on the diseases of the 
particular crops, who will thus be able to quickly and effectively 
work out practical methods of control. These men will become in- 
valuable to the growers of the State and will well desenx their 
share of the prosperit}" that comes to the growers whom they sen'e. 

Member. Islr. President : I should like to have you read 
question eight, and have Professor AMietzel bring out the difference 
between Bacterial Collar Rot and Fungus Collar Rot, and to give 
the authorit}- for calling it by that name. 

Prof. Whetzel. I do not know ; no one has ever determined 
but what they are one and the sar/.e. 

Member. Vrill ]\Ir. Bassctt hir.hly answer the first question on 
the progra:::— How to Hurrs* a Young Apple Orchard? 

Mr. Bassett. I am sorry I cannot do that ; I shall be unable to 
answer that. Hurry in bearing, I suppose you mean ? 

President. Mr. Bas-e:t dechhi.es to speak on this question: 
would yir. ^ancent kinch' "hxe up tr.c t-jpic — AAhiat is the Best 
Way to Hurry an Apple Orchard : 

Mr. Vincent. ]\Iy advice would be not to hurr\- slow-bearing 
varieties. You should grow varieties that come into bearing early — 
AA'agner or Duchess — one you know will come into bearing early. 

Josiah Prickett. \"\hll some one kindh* answer question twelve 
■ — Would It Pay a ]\Ian with a Ten Acre Orchard to Purchase a 
Power Sprayer? 

Member. Josiah Prickett, I think, can answer that question 
best himself. 

Mr. Prickett. I do not think it is customru-y : : tre uu.-^.u that 
asks the question to answer it. I have been u/.te/e-te h ::i pzvver 
sprayers. I am about changing oft — getting another sprayer. I am 
interested in the subject, and would like to have some infomiation 



•69 



on the subject. I am following- up the Compressed Air Sprayer and 
am just young- in that business. If anyone has a Compressed Air 
Sprayer, I should like to have it discussed. 

Mr. Bassett. I notice the question refers to a lo-acre orchard 
— presumably a lo-acre bearing orchard. I have seen excellent work 
done with a hand sprayer; but I believe that a man who has a lo- 
acre orchard can afford a power sprayer. The nature of the sprayer 
is open to a big line of argument. We have a gas sprayer, in which 
the power is furnished by liquid carbonic acid gas with pressure. 
That has been very satisfactory. The only trouble has been that 
when we came to use the Lime Sulphur Spray, the carbonic acid 
has broken down the solution. Gasoline engine outfits are also sat- 
isfactory. Sometimes they get mulish ; you can't tell just what you 
are going to get out of a gasoline engine. They have better ones 
to-day. There are a number of good outfits on the market. As to 
air compression, of course it is the same principle as the Niagara Gas 
Sprayer, using compressed air, instead of gas. 

In Ohio they have a large number of power sprayers, and the 
growers work together very nicely. They have central power sta- 
tions, w^here a number of people go with tanks. They have two 
tanks — one for the liquid to spray, and one to contain compressed 
air, just the same as carrying grist to the mill. They have a power- 
ful engine. They can buy their compressed air cheaper than they can 
make it. You go to the central station ; there you will find a man 
in charge, w^ho has it in readiness. You simply drive up and get 
your compressed air. You have your other tank filled with the 
spray material ; and you are all equipped to go to work. Where a 
man has his own individual plant, he has a central station on his 
own place. 

You have your engine to run your compressor, your compressor 
to run the sprayer, and your tank to hold the spray material. The 
one objection to a power sprayer in, an orchard, is that the machine 
weighs considerable. When the frost is just coming out of the 
ground, this is quite an item. You have quite a load to carry, es- 
pecially where the engines are heavy and you have large tanks. 
We have changed our notion as to tanks. Where we formerly had 
250 gallon tanks, we now^ prefer tanks not over 150. We have our 
stations not so far from our orchards, so we can go back easily. 
This plan is a much better one than to carry such an immense load. 
My opinion is that the power sprayer has come to stay. If men 
want to raise fruit successfully they need a power sprayer. We 
need more power in applying our spray materials. The proper time 
to spray is when the blossoms stand up straight. If we stand under- 
neath and shoot the spray upward, we are failing to hit the vital 
point. We use elevated platforms and nozzles set at an angle to 
the spray rod. In this way we are able to throw the spray down 
into the calyx, taking care of fungus diseases, and also making our 
first fight against the coddling moth. When the calyx is partly 
closed, it is too late to try to squirt poison into it for your coddling 
moth. We are going to use more power than we can get from a 
hand sprayer, and we must apply our spray from above, so as to 
get the poison into the calyx. 

Member. What pressure do you use ? 



70 

Mr. Bassett. About 200 pounds, where we were formerly 
satisfied with 125. The old hand machine never gave over 85 
pounds, and that under the manipulation of a good, strong, healthy 
man ; more frequently than not you got less than 40 pounds. An- 
other thing, if you will use a hand machine, for goodness sakes don't 
use only the middle inch of the plunger. Hump yourself a little, or 
get your man to do it, and use the whole cylinder. 

Member. What nozzle do you use to apply the poison? 

Mr. Bassett. We used to use the Vermorel. We now use a 
nozzle something like the Friend. There are a number on the mar- 
ket. It is a heavy nozzle with several discs, which can be inserted 
easily. The type is the same as the Friend nozzle. It is called The 
Scientific ; has been liked very well this year. 

E. C. Tyson. Do you think that will take the place of several 
Vermorels ? 

Mr. Bassett. Yes, we formerly used four in a cluster of Ver- 
morels. This one would do the work of several, and do it better. 

Member. How about the amount of power required for that 
nozzle ? 

Mr. Bassett. W^e put on just as much power. You can gen- 
erally tell by the hiss of the spray. 

Member. Would it be satisfactory used with a hand pump? 

Mr. Bassett. Yes; with a good, strong man pumping. 

Member. Do you think a hand pump will work one Scientific 
nozzle all right? 

Mr. Bassett. Yes ; but you have to have a MAN at the end 
of the handle. The old Vermorel is likely to clog; the Scientific 
does not clog as much. 

W. C. Tyson. I should like to know in the case of compressed 
air, how agitation is provided. When you have two closed tanks, — 
one for compressed air and the other for material, how would you 
agitate any m.aterial, Lime Sulphur, for instance ? 

Mr. Bassett. The Martinsburg people put an agitator in them ; 
some are provided with power agitators, some with hand agitators. 
Some machines are provided with an exhaust, so that part of the 
material returns to the tank and keeps it stirred up. 

Member. I would like to hear from Eli Garrettson as to how 
his power sprayer works. 

Mr. Garrettson. I have had it in use only one season and a 
half. It has been very satisfactory. I used it on lime and sulphur 
this fall with good results, and the expense was trifling. I used up 
a good pint of gasoline to a hundred gallons. I had no trouble with 
the engine ; it has never balked on me ; it has been very satisfactory. 

Member. I have heard that scale can be removed from the 
fruit by spraying; has anyone had that experience? The insect marks 
the fruit; before the fruit is ripe you can see it. Can that be re- 
moved by spraying? 

A. — Member. I used Scalecide. 

Member. What time of the year did you use it? 

A. — Member. About a month before picking. 

Member. Did it leave any bad effects on the fruit ? 

A. — Member. No. 

Member. What strength did you use? 



71 



A. — Member, i to 25. 

Member. I would like to have Professor Whetzel answer 
Number 5. 

Chairman. What is the cause and remedy for the irregular 
hard spots in apples, causing them to be irregular in outline, and 
often rendering the fruit worthless ? 

Prof. Whetzel. This injury is supposed to be caused by a 
small, red, sucking, insect, which Prof. Slingerland called the "Red 
Bug." Prof. Slingerland was engaged in investigating the Red 
Bug just before his death; in fact, he died before he concluded his 
work. The Red Bug punctures the fruit when it is quite small. In 
some sections the damage it has done has been considerable, es- 
pecially to Greenings. Many of the knotty apples, according to 
Prof. Slingerland, are caused by this insect. The small red bug, as it 
grows larger, becomes very lively. We have not had very good suc- 
cess in controlling it. 

Mr. C. J. Tyson. Does that cause a discoloration of the skin 
on the outside ? 

Prof. Whetzel. It simply depresses it; if you cut the apple, 
you will find it miore or less woody down under the flesh. 

Member. The skin is comparatively perfect on the outside? 

Prof. Whetzel. Except for the small puncture. 

Member. Has the skin a similar color to the rest of the apple ? 

Prof. Whetzel. I do not know. 

Member. Do you find it on the Ben Davis ? 

Prof. Whetzel. Yes. 

Member. Smith Cider has the trouble this year. 

Member. Is the damage caused early in the season? 

Prof. Whetzel. Yes ; when the apples are quite small. 

Member. Did Prof. Slingerland work out any remedy? 

Prof. Whetzel. No; he had only completed — not quite com- 
pleted the life history at the time of his death. The insect must be 
killed by contact spray. Even when quite small they will jump off 
of the tree to the ground, and come back after spraying is over; 
when they get older they fly. We have not been very successful in 
controlling this bug. 

C. J. Tyson. There is another trouble — we have a great deal 
of it here, especially have we had it during the past two or three 
years. It occurs like a bruise or welt, rather a depression than a 
welt, the skin of the apple not being broken, and it having a red 
color, redder than the rest of the apple, and the flesh underneath is 
a dry corky rot. 

, Prof. Whetzel. Yes ; it is a disease, commonly called the 
Baldwin Spot; it occurs commonly in New York. It attacks also 
other fruits than the apple. It looks like a dent in the apple. The 
flesh is dry and spongy. 

C. J. Tyson. Now, I do not believe that is the trouble I am re- 
ferring to. The one I referred to affects the whole side of the apple ; 
and so far as I have seen it, the apple never gets dark on the outside, 
like the Baldwin Spot. 

Prof. Whetzel. I am not familiar with it. 

C. J. Tyson. It looks like a limb bruise. 

Prof. Whetzel. No, I am not familiar with that at all. 



72 



Member. Is there a remedy for the Baldwin Spot ? 

Prof. Whetzel. Not so far as I know. A lot of work has 
been done on it all OA^er the world. Nobody has a remedy for it. 

Member. (Shows apple.) What is this on the outside of the 
apple — small dents like this. 

Prof. Whetzel. That looks like the Fruit Spot. This disease 
has recently been worked upon by Dr. Brooks, of New Hampshire. 
In order to distinguish it from the Baldwin Spot, it has been given 
the name of Fruit Spot. It is a fungus disease. You can. peel back 
the skin and take out a piece of it, and get the fungus to grow in 
cultures. It can be controlled by spraying with Bordeaux mixture, 
making the spraying about July. It depends upon the weather. And 
right here, a great many of you have developed the habit of spraying 
according to spraying calendars. You must remember that condi- 
tions in different parts of the country, and even in different parts 
of a state, vary considerably. More damage has been done by spray- 
ing calendars than the pathologists can correct in a long time. Spray 
according to the condition of your fruit at a given time, and the 
weather conditions. Spray according to the stage of development of 
your fruit. Some people begin spraying, for instance, on the south 
side of the orchard, or on the east side, without stopping to think 
that some apples blossom earlier than others. As regards the 
weather, spray before rains, not after. Rain will not wash Bordeaux 
Mixture or Lime Sulphur off of our trees. Every fungus that 
causes disease, is scattered during rains, and infests the fruit. It 
gets into the fruit during rain, and not before. We want the poison 
on the fruit or leaves when the rain comes. 



PRACTICAL DEMONSTRATION IN THE BOXING OF 

APPLES. 



By C. C. Vincent, Asst. Horticulturist Oregon Agricultural College and Bx- 
periment Station, Corvallis, Oregon. 



The box apple trade has been given more attention in the great 
distributing territory, east of the Rocky Mountains, this year, than 
ever before. For several years commission men in all the large 
cities pursued an attitude of indifference in regard to the bushel 
boxes, which are so much in evidence in the Pacific Northwest. 
But so much fruit has appeared in the eastern markets in boxes, 
that eastern dealers are obliged to recognize it. 

Mr. E. P. Loomis, a prominent dealer in New York City, says : 
''The tendency of our association is too much an association of 
barreled apples." "I believe packing apples in boxes is an advance 
in the industry." I honestly believe that if the boxing of fruit was 
resorted to, it would do away with the fraud and deception that is 
practiced with barreled fruit. It would necessitate the handling of 
number 2 apples as number 2's. The time is not far distant when 
many of the most progressive growers in the East will market their 
fancy fruit in boxes. 

The recent New England fruit show, held in Boston, has been 
a step in the right direction. It has demonstrated the fact that 



73 



eastern fruit when placed in boxes, compares very favorably with 
the western boxed fruit. 

The sales indicate a growing demand for boxed fruit. While 
on the demonstration fruit train, which ran through the fruit grow- 
ing sections of New York, a commercial orchardist stated to me 
that he had received $2 per box for his Dutchess apples this season. 
A commercial grower in the Hudson Valley sold some fancy apples 
for $3 per box (f. o. b.), local railway station. What these men 
have done, others can do, if proper care and attention is given the 
selection of the fruit. 

Those who are unfamiliar with western methods wonder why 
it is that the growers are able to receive such large prices for their 
fruit each year. It is a well known fact that they have been and 
are receiving as much per bushel box as the eastern growers are re- 
ceiving per barrel — 3 bushels. This fact is especially true in the 
London and Liverpool markets. 

The reasons are obvious. The English buyers know that every 
apple is uniform in size and shape. They can depend upon the 
western boxed fruit as to quality. Thus they can afford to handle 
this fruit at a much narrower margin of profit than apples in barrels. 

What has been done in the West can be done here in the East. 
Right here in this locality, if the progressive growers will band 
together. This organization is a step in the right direction. 

From what observations I have made in New York and also in 
Pennsylvania, I find that you can grow the fruit. Your exhibition 
has demonstrated that fact. The color of your fruit is excellent. 
The next problem is the placing of this fruit on the market in the 
most profitable way. The solution to this question, I believe, will 
be the adoption of the bushel box. 

This morning I will give a practical demonstration in the box- 
ing of fruit, as is practiced on the Pacific Coast. Such points as 
picking and grading will also be briefly discussed. 

When to Pick. 

The time to pick the Spitzenburg, or any red apple is usually 
ascertained by its color. Many growers make the mistake in picking 
ihetr fruit too green. Fruit lacking in color is usually a drug on 
the market. With flesh colored apples, like the Newtown, etc., the 
time of picking is regulated by the coloring of the seeds. In general 
though, any variety is ready to be picked when the stem separates 
readily from the spur. The breaking off of the spurs should never 
be tolerated. 

Orchard Boxes. 

Just before the harvest begins the orchard boxes are scattered 
along the rows. This avoids unnecessary delay in the operations. 

Member. What is the shape of those orchard boxes? 

Answer. Similar to the box the fruit is packed in. They 
hold about a bushel, and are made of a little heavier material than 
the packing box. Cleats are placed on the ends, so that the boxes 
can be piled one upon the other. I do not advocate the use of the 
packing box for orchard purposes ; new clean boxes are preferable 
for the marketing of the fruit. Put a dirty box, filled with apples 



74 



on the market, and notice the effect. The crew of men who are 
under an orchard foreman are supphed with the necessary picking 
receptacles, ladders, etc., and then the work begins. 

Member. What do you pick the apples into? 

Answer. Alany of the growers use galvanized iron pails. They 
are of such a size (lo in. x lo in.) that they can be lowered into the 
box, thus eliminating the bruising of the fruit to a very great ex- 
tent. 

Member. How about a bag? 

Answer. Personally, I am not in favor of the bag; for in 
climbing up and down the ladder, and in stooping over, the fruit 
is very likely to get more or less bruised. 

Chester Tyson. It is customary here to use the half-bushel 
drop handle basket. 

Member. Is the pail round? 

Answer. Yes. 

As soon as the orchard boxes are filled with fruit, they are taken 
immediately to the packing house. The fruit is never allowed to 
remain exposed to the sun's rays for any length of time. 

Packing Houses. 

These vary in size and shape, according to the whims of the 
orchardist. In some instances I have known men to use large tents 
for this purpose. In the construction of packing houses there are a 
few points well worth mentioning: One requisite is light; by all 
means have plenty of windows in your building. Another is plenty 
of room. Build a large, roomy house. 

Grading. 

The apples, on their arrival at the packing house, are placed 
at the ends or in the center of the building. A crew of men begin im- 




Fir.v.RE 10~-GRADrN'G BOARD 



(Court -'sy of "Better Fruit.") 

mediately to sort the apples. I have here a sizing board (Shows 
board about 6 inches wide and 2 feet long, with a row of holes 
through the center, varying in diameter from 2}i inches to 3% 
inches in regular sequence), which represents the diflferent sized 
apples that are put up in boxes. This board (See Figure 
10) is placed up in a convenient place, before the sort- 
ers. As soon as the grader has trained his eye, and 
this it will not take him long to do, he will be able to 



75 



discard the grading- board for the most part, and can tell at a glance 
if a certain apple is going to fit in a certain pack. If in doubt, he 
holds the apple up to the hole, but never drops it through. Some 
rnen, the grower finds, soon adapt themselves to this method and 
become very proficient graders. But, just as you have found in 
barreling, some men Avill never learn how. 

Packing Table. 

The packing table, which stands before you (See Fig- 
ure i), represents a style of table that is used quite 




Fig:. 1. Packing: Table in General Use. Courtesy Better Fruit.) 

extensively throughout the West. The table is about three 
feet high, three feet wide, and three feet long. The uprights 
are made of 2 inch x 4 inch material ; sides, i inch x 6 inch. 
The legs are beveled ofif so as to leave no sharp edges to bruise the 
fruit. The top is covered with canvas, which is allowed to sag or 
hang rather loosely. To serve as a double protection to the fruit, 
rubber hose is nailed around the top of the table. A board nailed 
across the end and one on the side of the table, serve to support the 
box, which is placed on an angle. 

Box Material. 

Pine or spruce appears to be the best material for boxes. This 
material is delivered to the grower in shooks. He makes his own 
boxes. An expert can put up from 200 to 300 per day. Cleats are 
placed on the tops and bottoms of the boxes. Cement coated or 
barbed nails are used, ^^'e have two sized boxes in general use in 
Oregon; one is known as the California Special — this box that is 
before you, — having inside measurements 10 in. x. 11 in. x. 20 in.; 
the other is the Standard, having inside measurements of 10J/2 in. x 
11^ in. x 18 in. 

Details of Packing. 

Uniform sized apples are brought to the packing table. The 
packer now^ begins his first operation, i. e., the lining of the sides of 
the box with lining paper. This is nothing more or less than com- 



76 



mon white wrapping paper, which is just a trifle smaller than the 
length of the box, and about 26 inches in width. The ends are very 
seldom lined. The next step is to put in the layering paper. A 
sheet of paper is placed between each layer of apples, and also on 
the bottom of the box and on the top before the lid is nailed on. If 
the California Special Box is used this paper would be 10^ in. x 
igj4 in. in size. It serves a purpose, as it has a tendency to hold the 
apples more firmly in place. 

The hood is now hooked over the side of the box to hold the 
paper. The wrapping paper varies according to the size of the 
apple. For three tier and three and one-half tier apples, 10 in. x 
10 in. paper is large enough. Smaller sized apples will wrap up 
very nicely in 8 in. x 10 in. paper. 

A monogram is stamped in the center of each paper. This 
usually contains the grower's name. The paper is prepared by a 
certain process ; one side is smooth and the other side is left a little 
rough. This rough side is placed next to the apple. 

Wrapping the Apple. 

Every packer has his own way of wrapping an apple. I pick 
up the paper with my left hand, thus, with the corners diagonal, and 
with my right place the apple in the center, bringing the outer edge 
of the paper over the apple, then turning it, thus bringing the smooth 
surface up and the bunch on the bottom. This serves as a cushion. 
The apple is now placed in the bottom of the box. Repeat the per- 
formance until the layer is finished. Then place in the layering 
paper. Continue the operation until the box is filled. Every apple 
in the box is wrapped. To aid the packer in the picking up of the 
paper, a rubber band is placed over the thumb or fore-finger. An 
expert can put up from 50 to 100 boxes per day. His ability of 
course will vary with his practice and training in that line. 

Styles of Packs. 

At the present time there are two styles of packs, known as the 
square or straigt and diagonal pack. In the square pack the apples are 
placed one upon the other. In the diagonal pack (See Fig. 2), there is 
less danger of the apples bruising in transit, as no one apple rests 
upon another, but fits in between the four apples below. Undoubt- 
edly before many seasons pass, the diag'onal pack will be the one 
most largely used. If only the two sized boxes were used, all apples 
could be packed diagonally. For instance, all the apples that would 
pack square in the California box, could be packed diagonally in the 
Standard box. The 3 tier, 4 tier, and 5 tier apples will pack up in 
the square pack. The 3^ tier, 4^ tier, can be placed in the diag- 
onal pack. 

The classification of the apples contained in each box, as is des- 
ignated by the tin labeling, is as follows : 

3 Tier Apples in the Standard box, 45 to the box. 

3 Tier Apples in the Special box, 54, 63. 

3^ Tier Apples in the Standard box, 64, 72, 80, 88. 
3^ Tier Apples in the Special box, 96, 104, 112, 120. 

4 Tier Apples in the Standard box, 96, 104, 112, 120. 



77 



4 Tier Apples in the Special box, 128, 144. 

4^ Tier Apples in the Standard box, 150, 163, 175. 
4^ Tier Apples in the Special box, 185, 200. 

5 Tier Apples in the Special box, 200, 225. 

Unless the apples have been properly graded beforehand, no 
such system of classification can be obtained. Probably the best 
place for the 5 Tier Apples, is at the evaporator or cider factory. 




Fig:. 2. Celebrated Diagfonal Pack. 

(Courtesy of "Better Fruit.") 

Mr. Bassett. In the diagonal pack, are you not selling a lot of 
empty spaces, instead of apples ? 

Ansv^er. No ; if the apples are properly graded, the spaces are 
confined to each end of the box. 

Starting the Packs. 

Very little trouble will be experienced in starting the square 
pack, i. e., if the apples have been properly graded. With the 3 Tier 
Apple, which is 3^3 inches in diameter, it requires 3 apples to fill up 
the space across the bottom of the box, or in other words there will 
be 3 rows in width and 3 layers in depth. The 4 Tier Apples re- 
quire 4 rows in width and 4 layers in depth. 

The diagonal 3^ Tier pack (See Fig. 3) is started dillerently. 
In this style one gets 3^ rows in width and 4 layers in depth. The 
first apple is placed in the lower left hand corner of the box, another 
apple is placed in the center. The following two apples are pressed 
firmly in the places which are left. This is sometimes called the 2-2 
pack. 



To start the 4^-2 Tier pack, place the first apple in the lower left 
hand corner of the box, another in the lower right hand corner, and 
another in the center. Two apples are then pushed down, as far as 




Fig-. 3. Method of Starting: 3^2 Tier Diagonal Pack. 

(Courtesy of "Better Fruit.") 

possible in the spaces that are left vacant. The 4^2 Tier pack is also 
known as the 3-2 pack. 

The Bulge. 

Inexperienced packers will have some little difficulty in getting 
the proper bulge to the box. Practice, however, will obviate this. 
A\'hen the fruit is packed, the apples at both ends should come up 
flush with the top. In the center they should extend a little higher. 



Fig. 4. Left Box Too Flat, Middle Just Right, Rig^ht Too High. 

(Courtesy of "Better Fruit,") 

(See Fig. 4). There is more or less of a gradation between one 
sized apple and another. For instance between the 3 Tier and 3^ 
Tier. To obtain the proper bulge, which should be from i to 
inches, the packer selects apples that are a trifle smaller for the 
ends, working those that are a trifle larger to the center. In case the 
apples are of the same size and are being packed on the cheek, in 
order to obtain the proper bulge, the end apples are turned with the 
stem ends up. Ever}- box of fruit should have a swell (See Fig. 5). 
As soon as the box has been filled it is taken to the nailing press 
(See Fig. 6) and the cover placed on. 

Lithographs. 

On every box is placed a neat, attractive lithograph. This adds 
very much to the appearance of the box, and aids materially in selling 
the fruit. A cheap, gaudy label detracts rather than adds to the 
appearance. A lithograph should contain the grower's name, the 




79 



name of the locality, and also the name of the state where the fruit 
is grown. For instance, 'Benclersville, Pa." Let ''Pennsylvania" 
stand out in bold relief. If this is done and the box contains fancy 
fruit, the grower will soon establish a reputation for himself. 

On the other end of the box is stamped the number of apples 
in the box, the packer's number, the grower's name, and the word 




Fig:- 5- Side View of Boxes After Nailing:, Showing: 
Proper Bulg:e in Top and Bottom. 

(Courtesy of "Better Fruit.") 

"fancy." Every consumer on buying a box of apples knows that he 
is getting a definite number. 

Question. How are boxed apples going to be placed in the 
car without bruising? 

Answer. The boxes are placed on their sides. Cleats are laid 




Fig:, b. Nailing: Press. (Courtesy of "Better Fruit.'") 

between the layers, thus allowing for the spring of the car. 

Question. Is there any difference in carrying, whether the 
fruit is packed on the end or on the cheek ? 

Answ^er. There may be, but it can hardly be avoided if the 
proper bulge is to be secured. Certain varieties, like the Spitzen- 
burg, pack up better on the cheek. 



8o 



Question. How do you make the layers come out? 

Answer. Each style of pack has a definite number of layers. 
Examples : The 3 Tier pack always has 3 layers ; 33^2 Tier 4 layers ; 
4 Tier 4 layers ; 4^ Tier 5 layers. 

Question. Would you not have to pac ksome tiers both ways, , 
a couple of tiers on the calyx end, and several on the cheek? 

Answer. Yes, that is done. If the fruit is being packed on 
the cheek, and the packer finds he is not going to get the proper 
swell, the middle layer is turned. 

Question. — Mr. Bassett. Does the man who does the packing, 
do the grading? 

Answer. No. 

Question. What does the grading cost? 
Answer. The graders are paid by the day. 
Question. Do the graders use tables? 

Answer. The fruit is usually graded from one box to another. 
This avoids unnecessary handling. 

Question. About what is the net cost of putting up a box of 
apples ? 

Answer. Packing costs 5 cents; box material, from 10 to 12 
cents; wrapping, lining and layering paper, i cent. Probably 18 or 
20 cents would cover the cost. 

Question. The York Imperial has two rather distinct forms 
we find running together ; a flat apple and one quite the reverse. 
The apples might caliper the same, yet be difficult to pack. How 
could this be managed? 

Answer. You would probably have to make separate grades 
of the two forms. The long type would pack up nicely on the cheek, 
while the flat type could be packed better with the stems up. 

Question. Those individuals who have adopted the box sys- 
tem out there, have they eliminated the barrel system altogether ? 

Answer. Yes. 

Question. Do the men out there ever get any good sized ap- 
ples that do not have color enough to put up in boxes ? 

Answer. Everything is packed in boxes. If the fruit is a little 
off color, a large L is stamped on the end of the box. 

Question. — Mr. Bassett. What constitutes a number two? 

Answer. Blemished to some extent. 

Question. What do you mean by blemished? 

Answer. An apple aft'ected by hail ; small scabby spots, worm 
punctures, etc. 

Mr. Bassett. One trouble about the adoption of the package 
in the East seems to be that the commission men discourage it. 

Answer. This has been done laregly in the past, but I believe 
the commission men are now forced to recognize the box package 
here in the East. 

W. E. Grove. What kind of wood do they use for the boxes? 

Answer. Pine or spruce. Soft wood. I do not think the 
growers will have any trouble in getting the material. Maine, I un- 
derstand, has from 21 to 22 billion feet of standing spruce. 

Mr. Bassett. Do you buy the material knocked down? That 
is, buy the shooks and make the boxes yourself ? 



8i 



Answer. Yes. The nmterial costs from lo to 12 cents, knock- 
ed down. 

C. J. Tyson. A grower in New York tokl me he could bring 
box wood from the Pacific Coast as cheaply as he could buy in New 
York, and get more satisfactory material. 

Question. How do you keep posted on market conditions ? 

Answer. Through the Association. Some days telegraphic 
communications at the Hood River V^alley Association would amount 
to $100. An individual could not afford that expense; but to an 
association having 200 to 300 members, the expense is very slight. 
Mr. Paulhamus, President of the Puyallup Fruit Growers' Associa- 
tion of Washington, stated that just before they began to market 
their fruit, one man was stationed in Seattle, one in Spokane, one at 
Boise, Idaho, etc. All these men make daily reports as to market 
and climatic conditions. If it was found that a car of small fruit 
was going to Boise, Idaho, and that it was very cold at Boise, and 
very warm at Spokane, the destination of the car would be changed 
and be sent to Spokane instead. The destination of the car is 
changed according to climatic conditions, slumped markets, etc. 

Question. Is it possible to grade apples into different sizes by 
machines, and if so, describe the machine and operation. 

Answer. I do not know of any machine that is offered for sale 
that would be applicable for the grading of apples. 

- The orange graders I hardly believe would answer the purpose, 
as there would be too much bruising of the fruit. 



SPRAYING FOR SAN JOSE SCALE AND CODLING 

MOTH. 

(stenographic report.) 

Prof. Thomas B. Symons, State Bntomologist, College Park, Md. 

Mr. CJiairman, Ladies and Gentlemen: I congratulate the mem- 
bers of this association on having such an active county organization. 
I indeed consider it a great privilege to be with you this morning.. 
As Lincoln, not far from this spot, urged his fellow countrymen to 
save the Union, so I urge you to wage relentless war against in- 
jurious insects. 

I gave your secretary the subject for this morning's talk rather 
hurriedly, and I would ask the chairman not to hold me strictly to 
the title of the address, as I wish to mention at least one other insect 
that is of considerable importance at this time. 

As to the San Jose Scale and the Codling Moth, I shall simply 
try to supplement the work that your most efficient entomologist. 
Prof. Surface, is doing in this State. I congratulate the growers of 
Pennsylvania that they have been able to get the State to sufficiently 
appreciate the importance of this work to appropriate at least $40,000 
for the control of injurious insects and plant diseases. The State is 
really up-to-date in that respect; and I hope that other Eastern 
States w411 appreciate the importance of the control of these pests. 
Erom the standpoint of co-operation, I tell you men, individually, 



82 



we are a mighty small proposition among 90,000,000 of people. It 
is only by combining, as you gentlemen are doing, that you can get 
the results you desire; and in order for the farmers to get their just 
results, it will be necessary to combine to compete successfully with 
those interests that also combine. And the sooner the farmers of the 
East and W est appreciate that point, the sooner they will get a more 
just reward for their efforts. 

In discussing the San Jose Scale, I recognize that you men are 
up-to-date, and have been spraying for San Jose Scale for many 
years past. I believe that the men wdiose faces I am looking into, 
have long since appreciated the fact that they are not afraid of the 
San Jose Scale; that it can be controlled. We have learned that. 
The only point, and the prevailing question that is asked to-day in 
regard to the San Jose Scale, is : What solution is the most effective, 
the easiest to apply, and the cheapest. We have learned the most 
effective solution. Thp home-made Lime Sulphur wash has been 
thoroughly established as an efficient remedy for this pest ; but the 
question confronting the farmers and fruit growers of to-day is to 
get a solution that is effective, is also easy to apply, and cheap. 

The conditions governing the application of spray materials are 
of considerable importance in emphasizing the ease of application. 
The labor problem is presented to every farmer; and if he can get 
a remedy which he can have easily applied, and more satisfactorily 
applied by his laborers, he is after that solution. The manufacturing 
people appreciate that condition, and have been constantly putting 
on the market various solutions looking towards the control of this 
pest. They finally learned that the growers wanted to use Lime 
Sulphur, and they have now put on the market several brands of 
Lime Sulphur Solution. I would say my remarks upon the dif- 
ferent solutions are based upon my experiments conducted during 
the past two years in orchards. I wanted to know, first, whether a 
concentrated lime sulphur solution would be as effective as a home- 
made one ; and in order to learn that it was necessary to test it on the 
trees. I have done this for two years, — the past year more exten- 
sively than the previous one ; and from the results of the past year, 
so far as we could observe from careful examination on Peach and 
Apple, sprayed in fall and spring, it seems that some of the con- 
centrated solutions have compared favorably with the home-made 
wash. They have done all that is to be expected of them, both on 
Apple and Peach. I'll have to admit that the past season has been a 
very easy one, so to speak, for the solutions to control the scale. 
We had an exceedingly dry season in this part of the world, and, as 
you know, the Lime Sulphur remedy controls the scale, by virtue 
of its lasting qualities on the trees, — rather than the immediate ef- 
fect when applied, — and by having less rain, the wash remained on 
the trees, and thereby cleaned up the little tiny crawling young re- 
produced in June and July. So, I would preface my remarks by 
saying that this is simply one season's work; and as fruit growers, 
you will not put your dependence in any one season's work in any- 
thing ; but so far as we know by the past season's experience, I be- 
lieve the concentrated washes will compare favorably with the home- 
made ; and it is a question that the individual grower must decide — 
whether he wishes to use the concentrated wash. Personally I have 



83 



always been a crank on Lime Sulphur. I recognize in Lime Sulphur 
that we are applying something that cannot hurt your trees, no 
matter who does the spraying, or how it is done. I also recognize 
that it does not spread quite as readily as the oil ; and that's the 
only point in favor of the oils that makes them advantageous on 
Apples ; and in my experience, covering ten year's of experiments, 
I have been able to get just as good results from Lime Sulphur on 
Apples as from the oil ; but I grant you it requires more thorough 
work. The San Jose Scale is harder to control on the apple than 
on the peach. 

Several Brands of Lime Sulphur Were Used In Our Tests. 

Practically speaking, they are about on the same basis, and 
practically speaking, it is up to the individual whether he wishes 
to use the commercial compounds or to make his own Lime Sulphur. 
If he has gone to the expense of buying a boiler, the latter is de- 
cidedly the cheaper wash. It is in my opinion the best wash when 
you make it properly; but in considering the labor, the trouble in 
making it, the commercial solutions offer quite an inducement to 
use them ; and my advice to the fruit growers is to simply put it on 
a financial basis. If you have a man that will handle and make the 
home-made, and you have everything for making it, I should cer- 
tainly use it. If, on the other hand, you do not wish to go to that 
trouble, you have the concentrated wash from which you certainly 
can reasonably expect the same results. 

Member. What dilution, Professor ? 

Prof. Symons. I would recommend i to 9 ; in bad cases i to 8. 

E. C. Tyson. Do you not think that the matter of time, 
being able to spray promptly when the winds are favorable, would 
be very much in favor of the concentrated solution ? 

Prof. Symons. You mean that it would take time to make the 
solution? Yes, there is that advantage. Furthermore, I think that 
people who have been spraying for years, have yet much to learn. 
None of us know it all ; and the man or woman who thinks he or she 
knows it all, might as well quit. We think we know something 
about spraying". I believe we have a lot to learn, even at this time. 
Certainly a great m^any of us do it in the hardest and most disagree- 
able way. It reminds me of a story I heard last week down in Bal- 
timore. Mr. Shemberger, of Baltimore County, is trying to get the 
Baltimore Countians together, working on the Good Roads Move- 
ment. He said a good many of the backwoods farmers were a great 
deal like the old man and his son that kept quite a number of cat- 
tle. In the arrangement of the stable, they had the bull in the first 
stall as you came into the stable. This bull had the peculiarly per- 
nicious habit of kicking as you passed by him — every time you went 
by him, he kicked. One day a visitor came, and they wanted to 
show him the cattle, — the cattle were kept at the other end of the 
stable. On entering the stable the injunction he received was: 
"Look out for that bull; that animal will kick you; we always have 
to be very careful in going by here." "Look here, my friend," said 
the visitor, "would it be any trouble to move that bull down into 
the last stall, and put the cows up here?" "Well, I declare," said 



84 



the man, "I never thought of that; father always kept him in the first 
staU, and I did not hke to change him." 

It's just these httle things that we have to learn. And in 
spraying it's all foolishness to have your men and teams all covered 
up with spray material ; it's up to the growers to work out this prob- 
lem. Study it, and always work to advantage. And that brings in 
the time of application. \Y& have done considerable work in spray- 
ing — spring and fall. I think you can spray just as well in the fall 
as in the spring. 

Member. Have your results been better? 

Prof. Symons. Our results have shown no appreciable differ- 
ence. Have always advised spraying in spring, merely because I 
think the wash remains on the trees a longer time in summer. Fur- 
thermore, in treating with Lime Sulphur wash, I think you are get- 
ting more fungicide eftect than you would in the fall. I believe there 
is some difterence there. In spraying tests it is mighty hard to tell 
the difterence. 

A word in regard to oil sprays. I have nothing against oils, 
save the fact that I do not believe the}' are good for the Peach Trees. 
I am very much like the old darkey in regard to oil. A darkey con- 
gregation was holding services in an old church; a storm struck it, 
and put the church in a -pretty rickety condition. The following 
Sunday, the congreg-ation assembled. The preacher gathered his 
flock about him, and was about to begin services when he discovered 
Maria standing outside under a tree. ''Why, Maria, come in to 
service," said he. ''No, sir; no, sir; boss, " said i\Iaria, "I trustes the 
Lord, I do; but I never fools with Him." So, I do not like to use 
oils on Peach trees. L^nderstand me; I agree, you can spray with 
pure kerosene oil, and do it without injury, if you are careful and do 
the work yourself ; but if left to your men to do, there is the possi- 
ibility of injury. I know of one man, who I had thought would soon 
l)e the Peach King of the Eastern shore. The last time I was at his 
place he had about eight thousand peach trees. Happening to meet 
him a year or two later, I asked him about his orchard during our 
conversation, and his surprising remark was, "I haven't a peach tree 
on the farm." "What's the matter?" said 1. "What in the world 
have you done?" "You know," he said, "when things don't go 
right, I pull them out." "'Yes, I know," I rephed. "Had scale,'' 
said he, "and sprayed with Target Brand." 

There are lots of people who have sprayed with oil? and gotten 
no injury; but we are running somewhat of a chance on peaches. 

Mr. Adams. Does the damage show itself around the collar? 

Prof. Symons. No ; usually by killing the smaller twigs inside. 
I know of a man who lost half of his crop in this manner. Oils can 
no doubt be used on apples with satisfaction. We have gotten just 
as good results from oils — soluble oil — "Scalecide," this past season, 
as we did with the Lime Sulphur. To show you the condition, — 
that the people are in doubt as to what the}^ should use, I received a 
letter from some fruit growers in Virginia the other day, asking 
what I thought of San-U-Zay ; that they had not received good re- 
sults from the concentrated Lime Sulphur Solution on Apples : and 
that they had about made up their minds to spray with oil. They 



8s 



especially wished to know about San-U-Zay. Knowing that I had 
tested many of the oils, they asked my opinion. 

I wrote something- as follows : "Last year we tested San-U-Zay; 
and it was absolutely worthless. Last fall we sprayed with San-U- 
Zay, and also in the spring-. The fall treatment killed the scale and 
did no injury to the trees; the spring- treatment killed the scale, but. 
did injury to the trees." I wrote them that the evidence had led u? 
to believe that the San-U-Zay could be used on apples, as in our 
test the fall treatment did not do any injury. 

Member. That is not a miscible oil, is it? 

Prof. Symons. The San-U-Zay is not exactly a miscible oil. 
because 3-ou have to use Sal Soda in mixing it. In the first year they 
did not tell us to use Sal Soda, and we went ahead with the regular 
directions, and did not get results. I wrote to Mr. F. G. Street the 
other day, and asked him for another sample of oil. He said he had 
decided to discontinue sending out five-gallon samples to experi- 
ment stations ; that he did not consider it a fair test ; and having such 
a great business, did not desire to do any more work in that line. 
I simply acknowledged the letter and g"ave him my views in the 
matter. 

Member. I had a little experience with that company. I read 
their circulars, and thinks I, it's all right, sent for a barrel. When 
the barrel came, I saw the directions to put some Sal Soda in. I 
had expected a material ready to put on the trees. I was disap- 
pointed, and asked that they take the barrel back. They did not 
want to do it ; but I told them I did not want to bother mixing oils, 
and would pay the freight both ways. They then took the barrel ofif 
my hands. 

Prof Symons. The sooner the farmer appreciates the fact that 
he should not believe everyone that comes along with a silver tongue, 
the better it will be for him. It is absolutely useless for men to try 
on an extended plan a solution that they know nothing about. That 
is the value of the experiment station. The five-gallon experiment 
is a small one ; but everything is on an equal basis, and is made as 
nearly perfect as can be under the circumstances. It does give me 
a better opportunity to answer a man's question with partial intel- 
ligence at least. If a man writes in to me and says, "What do you 
know of San-U-Zay?" and I write back to him, "Do not know any- 
thing about it," he gets my letter and says, "I'll try it." If I can tell 
him that I have tried it, and had good or bad results, I do give him 
a fact to go by. That's the reason I test these solutions. It is very 
tedious at times. We have learned, however, that what the farmers 
want to know is — What is effective along with ease of application? 

Geo. Fohl. If you boil Lime Sulphur, what proportions do 
you use? 

Prof. Symons. Twenty pounds lime ; 15 pounds sulphur. 
Geo. Fohl. How long do you boil it? 

Prof. Symons. Three-quarters of an hour, or until it has pro- 
duced an amber colored solution. 

H. M. Anderson. Does not the color of the solution depend 
on the lime you use? 

Prof. Symons. No ; usually on time of boiling. 

H. M. Anderson. Are you sure? 



86 



Prof. Symons. Yes ; if you get a good quality of lime, it gives 
less sediment, that's all. 

Geo. Fohl. Is the amount given right for fifty gallons of 
water ? 

Prof. Symons. Yes. 

Member. How do you boil it? 

Prof. Symons. Get a small boiler, or steam engine, or anything 
of the kind. If you have an orchard of a thousand trees, a vat, cost- 
ing five dollars, can be made out of wood, with tin bottom, that will 
serve. ^lake a hole in the ground and set it over. Boil twenty gal- 
lons of water ; pour in part of the lime, then add the sulphur — mixed 
into a paste — then the balance of the lime. After it has been boiled 
for three-quarters of an hour, add sufficient water to make fifty 
gallons. 

L. M. Myers. Have you ever had any injury from Scalecide 
on peach trees at the recommended strength of application in your 
experiments ? 

Prof. Symons. No, not in my experiments; but I have had re- 
ports of such injury. 

L. M. Myers. At the recommended strength? 

Prof. Symons. Yes. I heard of two or three cases year before 
last — the injury was slight. I do not know whether it was due to 
the season or not. Scalecide is one of the best oils on the market ; 
but I hesitate to recommend the use of oil at all on peach trees. 

L. M. Myers. In your experiments, do you find that you can 
kill a larger per cent of scale with Lime Sulphur than with oil? 

Prof. Symons. In our tests, yes ; but I know of a great many 
people who have had a different experience from that. Now, for in- 
stance, as a striking illustration, I know of a prominent orchardist 
near Hagerstown, who sprayed his apples with Thomsen Chemical 
Company's Lime Sulphur Solution, and did not secure good results. 
I have learned, however, that he had this Lime Sulphur put on by 
laborers on the farm, and that it was a very inefficient and poor job 
of spraying, and did not give good results. You have got to spray 
more thoroughly with Lime Sulphur than with oils. W e picked out 
an awful orchard for our test this past year, and got good results. 

W. H. Black. Does the commercial Lime Sulphur spread any 
better than the home-made ? 

Prof. Symons. I hardly think so. In using the concentrated 
I always like to add a little lime. I usually add a little over two 
pounds of lime in the form of milk of lime, to one barrel of the 
Lime Sulphur. It enables you to see what you have done. Before 
I added the extra lime I could not see where I had started or where 
I had left off ; and that's the reason I advocated the use of milk 
of lime. 

Mr. Eldon. Is there any other advantage to be obtained from 
the use of milk of lime? 

Prof. Symons. There is no advantage, except in seeing where 
you have sprayed, and it may aid in prolonging the effect of the 
Lime Sulphur. 

Mr. Eldon. If it stays on, it is that much of a deterrent? 
Prof. Symons. Yes, sir. You are killing scale by the caus- 
ticity of the solution. It kills not only the dormant scale ; but the 



87 



crawling scale that comes later, is also killed by this prolonged 
action. We looked at the trees in June and found them badly in- 
fested; we looked at the same trees late in the summer and found 
ninety per cent of the scale killed. 

A. I. Weidner. Will Lime Sulphur not have a tendency to 
drive the young crawling scale onto the fruit? 

Prof. Symons. I would not think so, Mr. Chairman. I would 
not think so. Of course, there may be a point in that. I would 
much rather take chances on a twig effectively sprayed with Lime 
Sulphur, than on a twig with nothing on it whatever, because the 
scale that has come out, is hunting for an easy place to put its beak. 
They will crawl :^r twenty-five hours looking for a convenient 
place to insert their beaks. Of course, if the fruit is near, they will 
infest that. 

A. I. Weidner. I have not made a careful examination; but 
late in the season, just before picking time, the scale developed con- 
siderably on the fruit. I do not know how it is on the limb — I have 
not examined that, I have been sick, and was not able to do it. 

Osage Orange Hedge. 

Prof. Symons. Another thing I want to call your attention to. 
is the fact of the Osage Hedge being a common breeding place for 
the San Jose Scale. I believe you do not have much of this Hedge 
in this county. Maryland has large quantities of it. The Osage 
Orange Hedge is a dear one to any farmer. It is a nuisance. It is 
a make-shift fence at the best, and cannot be counted upon to turn 
cattle. It is expensive to keep in shape, and certainly the work of 
trimming it is very disagreeable work. The expense of keeping it in 
shape will be more than that of replacing it with a good wire fence. 
It draws on the land ten to fifteen feet for food and moisture. 
Finally, I have made careful observations of the Osage Hedge in 
Maryland, and have not seen one that was not infested ; and they 
simply serve as distributing points to other places. I certainly urge 
men to eliminate this form of hedge from their farms. Washington 
County has considerable of it. 

Peach Lecanium. 

The Peach Lecanium, or Terrapin Scale, is a pest we have 
known for the past half a dozen years, but one that we had not 
looked upon as being a serious pest, or which we had entertained 
any doubts of being able to control. The past season, however, has 
changed our opinion on it. It has spread rapidly in Maryland. I 
I know of one case, from responsible hearsay, that it occurs in Penn- 
sylvania. I understand that Mr. Wertz has an infestation in his or- 
chard. I do not know as to other conditions in the State. I know, 
however, that in our State it has caused considerable loss to the 
smaller growers this past season, and I ask you all to look out for 
it. You wall observe that it is a tiny scale, but much larger than the 
San Jose, belonging to a larger class of scale insects. San Jose is a 
hard scale, the Lecanium is a soft scale. In 1907 we obser^^ed this pest 
in Maryland, and in one orchard at Smithsburg it was starting on a 
few trees. So I had one of my assistants take up some work on it. 



88 



We had previously had infestation at College Park on plum trees. 
It was not until 1908 that it was found to be indigenous to Pennsyl- 
vania, New York, and some of the Western States, and most of the 
States east of the Mississippi. It seems to have a general range of 
distribution, and has not been of any marked importance except 
during the last year. It was found to affect the plum and peach 
tree primarily, but will also be found in others, as, for instance, the 
sycamore and oak. In the plum orchard at the college, it was found 
that there was a fungus there that cleaned it out; and that started 
our work in the orchard at Smithsburg. I will cite briefly the man- 
ner of injury by this pest. It does not do its injury as does the San 
Jose Scale. The San Jose Scale does its injury by devitalizing the 
tree, sucking the juices of the tree, and killing it. This insect, 
though sucking the juices of the tree and leaves, does not seem to 
kill the trees outright to the extent that the San Jose Scale does. It 
seems to attack only the outer twigs, leaving the larger limbs free, 
and therefore, does not kill the tree; but the injury is due to the 
fact that the scale insect secretes a honey dew, which gives rise to a 
dark fungus that lives on the honey dew, and affects the fruit. 
This fungus spreads all over the fruit on the tree, making it dark^ 
unpresentable; and unsalable, and the loss has been due to the fact 
that the fungus scarred the fruit, so as to make it unsalable at the 
proper prices. So, it is a question of considerable importance, and 
the spread of it this y^ar leads us to believe that we have certainly 
got to get after it; and the question is, how should we get after it. 
In our tests with the Lime Sulphur and the miscible oils in 1907, 
we secured fairly good results. Thinking that the Lime Sulphur 
would be sufficient, and that the orchards that had been sprayed with 
Lime Sulphur for the San Jose would be protected, we felt secure. 
We found, however, that the Lime Sulphur made no difference. It 
spread through the whole orchard; We are up against it as to what 
to do at the present time. There are several other parties around 
Smithsburg that have it more or less, but not to the extent of the 
orchards referred to. 

This insect winters as an immature female. Early in the spring 
it begins to grow, and reaches maturity about the first of May. 
Later it begins laying eggs, and itself dries up, like the oyster shell 
scale. The eggs hatch out about the first of June. The young ones 
crawl out. Instead of inserting their beaks on the limbs, as does the 
San Jose, these insects go out on the leaves, up and down the ribs 
on the under side of the leaves. If you examine the peach trees the 
first of June, you will find a soft, flat little scale out on the under 
side of the leaves, up and down the mid rib. They stay there six 
weeks, secreting their honey dew, and the fungus drops down and 
gets all over the peaches. In about six weeks they return from the 
leaves to the twigs, and remain- there, developing over winter as an 
immature female. This scale is unique in its habits, in that it infests 
both the twigs and the foliage. We had thought that spraying the. 
trees just as the eggs are hatched, or when they are going out on 
the leaves, with kerosene emulsion, would kill them ; but this did not 
prove to be the case. The emulsion should be applied just as the 
eggs are hatched. I cannot at this moment give you any advice as 
to the controlling of this pest; but experiments are under way, and 



89 



we do know that so far the oils seem to be effective. I was in an or- 
chard about the loth of December, where the oils had been applied 
a week previous, and quite a number of the scale had been killed. 

Member. Do they infest the apple? 

Prof. Symons. They do not infest the apple. 

Prof. Symons. You had better look over your orchards and 
see if you can find the Lecanium ; and if you find it, you had better 
spray with oil now, because the fact of losing a crop of fruit would 
be nothing in comparison with having that scale spread in your or- 
chard. I would suggest now, the use of the oils i to 15 for this 
scale ; and if you find this Lecanium, I would use the oil right now, 
— the sooner, the better. 

Mr. Nevi^comer. What color is the fruit of an infested tree ? 

Prof. Symons. The fruit looks just as if you had taken soot 
out of the chimney and thrown on them. 

Mr. Newcomer. Some of the leaves, also? 

Prof. Symons. Yes. And the fruit has this fungus all over it. 

Member. What would be the effect of self-boiled Lime and 
Sulphur as a fungicide for that condition? 

Prof. Symons. We have not had the experience. It would 
probably help it. 

Member. Have you any points on it ? 

Prof. Symons. Well, no sir ; I would not express an opinion ; 
but my advice would be to consult the pathologists and Mr. Fulton, 
of Sleepy Creek, as I understand he had fine results the past season. 

Prof. Whetzel. Did you say you used the Niagara Brand in 
some of your experiments? 

Prof. Symons. Yes. 

Prof. Whetzel. Did you use it with sediment in it, or clear? 

Prof. Symons. I think it was the clear grade. 

Prof. Whetzel. In your opinion, what substance in the Lime 
Sulphur is effective in killing the scale ? 

Prof. Symons. I would appreciate it if you would ask me 
something easier. I do not believe anybody in the world knows. 
The real chemical action that take splace on a tree after poly-sul- 
phides are applied, is a mystery. So far as I know, the scale is killed 
by the caustic effect of the solution. Oxydizing takes place, giving 
forth free sulphur and several other combinations ; but as I say, I 
do not know. It is a very nice problem to work out. 

Mr. Baugher. Would there be any advantage in using the pre- 
pared Lime Sulphur one to five? 

Prof. Symons. I would consider that a little too strong. It 
would not hurt the apples ; but it is going to the extreme ; one to 
seven or eight would be the strongest I would care to use. 

Finally, as to the Peach Lecanium, I simply offer this to the 
growers. I urge them to look into their orchards for the pest, and 
suggest that oil is the possible remedy. If we cannot control scale 
by Lime Sulphur, we must conduct some experiments with oils. A\'e 
shall have to try them in the fall; if they do not have the desired 
effect then, we shall have to try them in the spring. We may have to 
use whale oil soap, which cannot be applied in the fall, while in the 
spring, just about the time the bud comes into leaf, it can be used 
with satisfaction. 



90 

Codling Moth. 

In regard to spraying for codling moth, I have here a number 
of photographs, prepared for use at the Maryland Horticultural 
Society Meeting, which I shall be g"lad to have you examine. The 
figures illustrate the work of our department during the past season, 
along the same lines as the work done by Professor Surface in 
Pennyslvania. 

The best means of disseminating information is to show the 
people the results to be obtained. Our policy is to conduct the exper- 
iments on the poor house farms of the counties. Being public prop- 
erty nothing can be said against any money expended by the State 
on these farms. The people of the county can go to these farms, 
and see up-to-date methods applied. 

This (shows picture) illustrates the benefit of one spraying on 
apple trees with Bordeaux Mixture and Paris Green. I was able 
only to make one spraying, on account of the conditions ; and it indi- 
cates what can be accomplished by simply one spraying. 

As you all know, the Codling Moth is an insect that does its 
injury by eating into the apple and making, the fruit wormy. You 
cannot sell wormy fruit; you want to gr4xv perfect fruit, and get 
good money for it. We can easily control this pest. 

W. C. Tyson. Do you prefer Paris Green to Arsenate of 
Lead? 

Prof. Symons. I have a very high opinion of Arsenate of 
Lead; and in our experiments have secured slightly better results 




Fig:. 7. Apples from Unsprayed Trees. Larg-e Pile, Culls. Small 
Pile on the Right, Saleable Fruit. (Photo by Peairs.) 

after using Arsenate of Lead then when Paris Green was used (See 
Fig. 7 and 8) ; but with Bordeaux Mixture there is not the differ- 
ence. In these experiments I have used Paris Green ; it is consider- 
ably cheaper. 

W. C. Tyson. Does it stick as well? 

Prof. Symons. It does not ; but when applied with Bordeaux, 
you have the Bordeaux to make it stick. 

W. C. Tyson. Is there any danger of burning? 

Prof. Symons. No, sir ; not with the Bordeaux Mixture. 

Member. What per cent of Paris Green do you use with the 
Bordeaux Mixture? 



91 



Prof. Symons. One-third of a pound to 50 gallons. 

Member. What formula of Bordeaux ? 

Prof. Symons. I think it was 4-4-50 or 4-5-50. 

Member. Have you used "Pyrox"? 

Prof. Symons. — No, sir. 

Member. Did you make your own Bordeaux Mixture? 

Prof. Symons. Yes, sir ; we made our Bordeaux Mixture. 

I have shown you what we secured from one spraying. I urge 




Fig:. 8. sprayed Once with Arsenate of Lead and Bordeaux Mix= 
ture. Large Pile not Wormy (Saleable), Small Pile Wormy. 

(Photo by Peairs.) 

that every one of you who is trying to become an orchardist, consider 
the fact that you have got to raise good fruit, and that you cannot 
raise it without controlling the Codling Moth. I would therefore 
urge one spraying, and preferably two sprayings. 

Member. When do you spray the second time? 

Prof. Symons. Two weeks after the first. Spray just after the 
blossoms have fallen, and then ten days later. 

Member. Is that late enough to catch that second brood? 

Prof. Symons. No; the second brood does not appear until 
July ; a third spraying is necessary to control this, but is more 
likely to russet the fruit at that time. The second spraying is im- 
portant, however, to take care of the late-appearing moths from 
first brood. 

Member. The first spraying would not take care of^the later- 
emerging moths ? 

Prof. Symons. No, sir; except that it would reduce the num- 
ber of moths for a subsequent generation. 

Mr. Dunlap. Is there any chance of catching the moth? 

Prof. Symons. No, sir; it is very tiny. 

Mr. Dunlap. Are not bands sometimes used to catch the 
moths ? 

Prof. Symons. Yes ; that is one means of catching' them. If 
you have not sprayed thoroughly, reaching every calyx, the banding 
is of value in catching the escaped larvae. These larvae emerge 
from the calyx, crawl down the tree, and enter any available crevice. 
If you have a band around a large limb, or around the trunk, usually 
the larvae wilLgo in under this band, and can thus be readily cap- 
tured and destroyed, thus preventing a second generation. \\'e have 



92 



sometimes in this way captured thousands of them. There is a 
fungus that works on them. If you spray thoroughly there should 
not be over five or six per cent of the moths for a second generation. 

Member. If you spray thoroughly, and spray only once ; is 
that sufficient; or do you advocate second and third spraying? 

Prof. Symons. I believe in being just as practical as possible. 
If I were in the orchard business I would spray more times than 
that ; if I were a farmer, and found that other duties would not 
permit more than one spraying, I would insist only upon one 
spraying. 

In closing, I urge that we all try to raise better fruit. ''Better 
fruit makes better men ; better men make better communities ; better 
communities better their environments ; better environments demand 
better roads ; better roads make better counties ; better counties de- 
mand better schools ; better schools make better children ; and better 
children will make a better state." 

The Chairman: We are glad to welcome into membership any 
fruit growers, whether resident of this county or not. If any who 
desire to join, will give their names to some member of the associa- 
tion, they will be presented at the opening of the next session. 



President Eldon. I want to say that a hearty welcome 
will be extended to anyone who desires to become a member 
of our association. I know you have all been welcomed here, indi- 
vidually and collectively; but I want to add my say-so; you know, 
being up here, I am in position to say the last word, and that counts 
for a great deal. I want to extend my welcome to you all, and a 
cordial welcome to anyone who wishes to meet with us. We certain- 
ly appreciate the intentions of those who, while comparative stran- 
gers, join us. It is a very high compliment. We want to feel that 
we are progressing somewhat year by year ; and the only way we can 
do this is to interest those who are in our own business. The presence 
of you here shows that you are interested ; and we thank you for 
your coming. If you are members of our association, we feel sure 
you will stay, being a unit. And thus we grow year by year. 



PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES FOR PROFITABLE PEACH 

PRODUCTION. 



Charles E. Bassett, Peimville, Michigan. 

Being a commercial peach grower in the Michigan fruit belt, I 
shall only attempt to give you briefly the common principles and 
practices of the leading growers of our section. We attempt no 
fancy methods — every dollar expended and every hour's work de- 
voted to the business is looked upon as an investment. With most 
of us, peach production is a "bread and butter" affair. Your own ex- 
perience with local conditions will enable you to judge just how far 
our methods can be followed successfully in your several orchards. 



93 



Soil and Location. 

While a good loam is our ideal soil, we have good orchards on 
nearly all kinds of soil. We do demand, however, that all peach 
lands shall be well drained, both as to air and water, and, as moderate 
elevations tend to furnish both a good air circulation and water 
drainage, high or elevated lands are preferred. 

Preparation of Soil. 

The ground to receive our baby trees must be well stocked in 
advance with suitable food to give them a vigorous start. Plowing 
under clover or other nitrogenous crops, before setting the trees, fur- 
nishes humus, which is especially valuable in making the ground 
spongy — capable of holding large quantities of water. 

Varieties. 

The choice of varieties is largely a local matter. Select those 
which do best in your locality and which supply the demands of your 
market. The large plantings of peach in Georgia, Texas, etc., have 
caused us to discard the early varieties, especially the clings. In 
our section the best commercial orchards include such kinds as the 
Yellow St. John, Engle's Mammoth, Conklin, Fitzgerald, Elberta, 
Kalamazoo, New Prolific, Smock and Salway — all yellow varieties. 
The Champion is one of the leading white kinds, but our market 
calls for large, high colored, yellow peaches. Such kinds as the 
Barnard, Crosby and Gold Drop are excellent in quality, but are too 
small, under ordinary cultivation, to be wanted by our buyers. De- 
spite its poor quality, the size color and shipping ability of the El- 
berta makes it the leading market peach. 

Cultivation. 

Our main object being quick and large cash returns, we do our 
utmost to force a strong, sound growth from the start by intensive 
cultivation EARLY in the season. Corn has been commonly grown 
the first two seasons between the trees, it being thought that the loss 
of fertility occasioned by the feeding of the corn being partly bal- 
anced by the corn's shade to the trees from the scalding rays of the 
sun. Later and better practice seems to omit all crops and give all 
the land to the peach trees. The trees are headed low — not over i8 
inches from the ground — and this calls for special tools in cultivating. 
The extension disc harrow and the extension fine tooth drag are 
some of the best tools after the second year, when the trees are given 
the whole of the ground. Cultivation must be kept up each week 
to save soil moisture and make more plant food available, by bringing 
the small particles of soil in contact with the air. 

Pruning and Thinning. 

Just as a fond parent corrects in his infant child any faults that 
may appear, so the true lover of trees, from the very first season, 
rubs off any buds that appear wdiere a limb or twig is not desired. 



94 



and he thus forms a correct head. A common mistake is to leave 
the forming of the head of the tree until it is three or four years old, 
when good-sized limbs must be cut off, leaving large scars that are 
hard to heal and which often leave a weakness. Allowing unneces- 
sary limbs to grow is also a great waste of plant energy. In fact, 
our former methods of horticulture seem to have been based upon 
the principles of forestry rather than upon those of fruit production. 
The engineer who would attempt to run a ten horse-power engine 
with a five horse-power iDoiler would be no more lacking in judgment 
than is the fruit grower who permits his tree to over-balance the root 
system that is called upon to sustain it. Build up that root system 
by continuous and intelligent feeding and then restrict the labor of 
the tree by severe and annual pruning and thinning. Prune so as to 
open the tops, so that God's free sunshine may reach all of the fruit 
and so paint upon their cheeks those beautiful colors, which are so ea- 
gerly sought after by the purchasers of our products. We prune 
our bearing orchards during the dormant period, preferably in 
March, after the hardest freezes are over. Many get good results 
by spring or even summer pruning, and one of the most profitable 
orchards I have ever seen has always been pruned in the fall. How- 
ever, I am inclined to attribute the fine results in the latter case to 
the severity of the pruning, rather than to the time when it was done. 
Much of the thinning can be done by severe pruning, but even after 
that has been done the expense of picking off the surplus peaches by 
hand will often be considerable. This thinning is essential and must 
be done before the pit hardens. The production of seed is a most 
exhaustive process and the trees must be given all possible relief by 
reducing the number of fruits. Stronger and longer lived trees, 
larger sized fruits and doubled profits will thereby result. 

Diseases and Insects. 

Curl leaf develops during cool, moist weather, but a thorough 
spraying of the dormant trees in March with a solution of two pounds 
of copper sulphate (blue vitriol) to fifty gallons of water is a sure 
preventive. Since we have been using Lime Sulphur to destroy the 
San Jose scale on our trees, we find that it is equally as effective in 
controlling the leaf curl. ''Yellows" and "Little Peach" are deadly 
diseases of unknown origin. There is no known cure and the only 
safe course is to cut down and destroy by fire all diseased trees as 
soon as discovered. These diseases can only in that way be held in 
check, but "experimenting" with these diseases has cost many a 
grower his entire orchard. The annual "grubbing" of the base of the 
trees, to destroy the borer, is also necessary — sometimes twice in the 
season. Many a sick looking peach tree will upon examination be 
found to be nearly girdled by the peach borer, whose work can be 
discovered by the gummy substance that exudes from the injured 
roots. Mounding the earth up around the base of the tree and then 
removing the earth after the period of egg laying has passed, is a 
method of some value and many report good results from applying 
gas tar to the base of the tree, thus shutting out the borer. The 
plum curcuHo is often quite destructive to the peach, but clean culti- 
vation will generally destroy the pupa. 



95 



Fertilizers. 

Stable manure is all right to secure rapid wood growth, but it 
continued use in large quantities produces wood that is soft and ten- 
der — easily injured by the cold winters. However, in our exclusive 
fruit section, we do not have enough stable manure on our farms 
to make it possible for us to do much of this kind of ''damage." 
Fertilizers that are rich in potash and phosphoric acid are most val- 
uable, such as unleached hardwood ashes and ground bone. We find 
great profit from the use of commercial fertifizers, the foundation of 
which is usually muriate of potash and ground bone from the pack- 
ing houses. 

Cover Crops. 

About the middle or last of August we sow some cover crop in 
the orchards. Oats and barley have been very good, but the sand vetch 
is now most popular, as it makes a mammoth growth and also adds 
considerable nitrogen to the soil, it belonging to the class of legumes. 
When it first begins to grow, this cover crop acts as a "robber" crop 
— taking up the soil moisture and available fertility at a time when 
we want the trees to stop growing and to ripen their new wood. 
Later this cover crop acts as a blanket, to hold the leaves and snow, 
preventing bare spots on exposed knolls and the consequent deep 
freezing and root injury. In the spring this cover crop furnishes 
considerable humus to be turned under and thus improve the me- 
chanical condition of the soil. Clovers would be even better for this 
purpose, as they furnish considerable plant food, but they have to be 
left too late in the spring if they get much growth, and they are then 
robbing the trees of food and moisture at the time when the trees 
should be making their best growth. We also find it difficult to get 
a catch of clover under large bearing trees. 

Finally, adopt the most intensive methods, to produce the largest 
and handsomest specimens, pick and pack them carefully and as near 
ripe as your market will permit ; pack honestly, so that you can guar- 
antee every package ; market through some co-operative system 
that will eliminate as many middle men as possible and, above all 
things, be "in love with your job" and "Johnny on the spot," and you 
will be safe in looking for a neat balance on the right side of the 
ledger at the end of each season. 



Member. Kindly give symptoms of the Peach Yellows. 

Mr. Bassett. Yellows is a disease that generally makes its ap-. 
pearance by a fine yellow growth ; the fruit itself becomes mottled 
on the outside, and when it is broken open, shows red streaks run- 
ning to the pit. 

Member. How do you work the Vetch in ? 

Mr. Bassett. Cut it up with a disk and plow it under. 

Member. It is pretty hard, is it not, to plow in an orchard of 
three years' growth? 

Mr. Bassett. Yes ; but on sandy soil, with a good disc harrow, 
you can chop it up pretty fine and turn under. There are two or 
three kinds of extension tools that might be used for this purpose, — 
or, you might get a grape hoe. 



96 



Member. What does a grape hoe cost? 
Mr. Bassett. Mine cost $i8 or $19. 
Member. Where do you buy them? 

Mr. Bassett. I bought mine in Syracuse ; I do not know 
where you can buy them. 

Member. They make them at Northeast. 

E. C. Tyson. Mr. Hiester uses the Grape Hoe. 

Member. Is it a small plow? 

Mr. Bassett. No ; it has a little cultivator attachment. It 
simply slides along. The Disc is on the handle part, so it can wind 
in and out. One horse draws it along. With it you can get around 
close to the tree, and plow the soil. 

Member. Did you ever use the Acme? 

Mr. Bassett. No, sir ; I do not like it as well as the full Disc. 

Member. I would like to ask Mr. Bassett how much he would 
cut back the peach tree at the first year's growth. 

Mr. Bassett. Well, sir; we watch our young trees, and when 
the buds begin to start, we select four buds, being careful to not get 
them together, — four buds that will eventually become the head of 
the tree, — and rub off the rest. These four buds are watched. If 
one is destroyed, we can find another, and produce a limb in its 
place. That new growth is the next year cut off about one-half. 
That will strengthen the tree and give it form and size. It is a 
great deal easier to rub the buds off with the fingers than it is to go 
out and saw them off when they have become limbs. You will find, 
however, that where a bud is rubbed off, its place will be taken by 
others, tending to produce a brushy section. You must be careful., 
and continue to rub these off, keeping the growth in subjection. 
What we want to remember is, that in bearing wood, we want root 
system, not a big top. Most growers seem anxious to get a big top — 
a forest tree, — when in reality he should aim to get a big root system. 

Member. I think, if our friend will take a branch and cut it 
off at the crotch, he will never have another single sprouting. 

Member. What are the first symptoms of the Little Peach? 

Mr. Bassett. It resembles the yellows. It does not have so 
much wiry growth. At a distance the tree looks as if it is dying ; it 
makes new growth out on the limbs. With the yellows the growth 
would be from the trunk. There is less wiry growth from the 
trunk in the Little Peach. The fruit remains small and is delayed 
in ripening. 

Member. How many years do you continue cutting back one- 
half? 

Mr. Bassett. Until the tree comes into bearing; and then 
watch the tree, and if it makes more growth than you want, do more 
cutting. Have an idea how you want the tree to be, and cut ac- 
cording to the amount of growth the tree makes, and according to 
the amount of food received. 

Member. Do you spray for Black Rot? 

Mr. Bassett. Yes, sir; we sprayed this year with Lime Sul- 
phur, and had pretty good results. We used a very weak solution ; 
we were afraid of burning the foliage. Our Elbertas are quite in- 
clined to having the rot, and we succeeded in cleaning it out pretty 
nicely. 



97 



Member. What kind of Lime Sulphur did you use ? 

Mr. Bassett. Commercial— manufactured by one of the com- 
panies — Grasselli. We also used the self-slaked. The trouble in 
this self-slaked, or self-boiled, made by simply slaking the linie and 
the sulphur coming into combination with it, but not in chemical 
combination, — is that the slaking is often allowed to progress too 
far, forming a chemical combination of the lime and sulphur, which 
will burn the foHage. To avoid such a combination, you must be 
careful to halt the slaking before chemical action is reached, by the 
addition of cold water. 

Chester J. Tyson. Mr. President: I move that the chair be 
authorized to extend the unanimous thanks of the Association to 
the gentlemen who have met with us as instructors. (Carried.) 

Mr. Eldon. It is my pleasure to extend to you the sincere 
thanks of the ^Association for the valued service you have rendered 
during this convention. I regret that I was not able to be here un- 
til to-day. I appreciate all I have heard. As Mr. Tyson has said, 
we cannot say all we feel in this matter. It is something that is too 
deep for words. I can simply say, for myself, and for the organiza- 
tion, that we have been very much helped. I hope that you will 
accept in that spirit, and that you will come again to assist and 
help us. 

E. C. Tyson. Mr. President: There are two bills which 
will claim the attention of Congress this winter that should interest 
us very much. One is the National Pure Insecticide Law, the ob- 
ject of which is to prevent the manufacture, sale or transportation 
of adulterated or misbranded Paris Greens, Lead Arsenates, and 
other insecticides, and also fungicides, and for regulating traffic 
therein, and for other purposes. 

This measure resembles the Pure Food and Drug Act, making 
it a misdemeanor, punishable by fine, to transport impure insecti- 
cides over State lines. It of course has no effect on intra-state af- 
fairs, its object being entirely the protection of inter-state commerce. 

The matter was taken up last winter and threshed over to some 
extent, but nothing definite accomplished. It is hoped that at this 
session of Congress final and favorable action will be taken. I would 
like to ask Mr. Bassett if he is familiar with the provisions of this 
bill. 

Mr. Bassett. I believe I am one of the members of the com- 
mittee. I did not draft the bill ; I was simply invited, as a member 
of the Michigan State Horticulture Association, to become a mem- 
ber of the Board. The agricultural chemists, the manufacturers of 
these goods, and our horticultural and experiment stations organ- 
ized to co-operate in getting pure insecticides of known value, and 
to prevent the manufacture of Arsenate of Lead below 12^ per cent 
Arsenic Oxide. 

The intent of the bill is to standardize our insecticides, so that 
no one shall have the right to manufacture and sell a poison, — an 
Arsenate of Lead, a London Purple, or Paris Green, not up to a 
certain standard. It is not an unattainably high standard, but a 
standard all can meet. It is to show up the fellows who are trying 
to put upon the market articles of poor quality, and corresponds in 
its nature to the Pure Food Laws of the dift'erent States. It works 
on the principle that a man in buying a thing, is entitled to the 



98 



thing he buys. Just as with FertiHzer. A man must first be able 
to guarantee a certain amount of essential elements, and this per- 
centage of essential elements must be printed on the outside. In our 
State, before a man can sell Arsenate of Lead, London Purple, or 
Paris Green, he must first have those goods analyzed by an agricul- 
tural station. He must record what he claims is in that article. 
And if he fails to come up to the requirements, he is subject to a 
fine. The bill was brought into being perhaps to protect the average 
unfortunate fruit grower from being swindled by some adventurer. 
It is certainly worthy of your support. A similar motion has been 
adopted by our State Association and by our local society; and we 
are anxious to push it. It is supported by the manufacturers them- 
selves, by the agricultural chemists, by the experiment stations, and 
all the agricultural stations. There is a lobby against it, and the 
very fellows who are lobbying against it, are the very ones it is in- 
tended to reach. 

E. C. Tyson. Mr. Chairman : I am very glad to know that 
Michigan has taken up the matter of protection within the State. 
This National law will protect us against adulterated spray material 
being shipped to us from other States. If we can accomplish this, 
we shall be in line to have a similar law adopted by our own State. 
Legislature for protection against manufacturers within- the State. 
I therefore move, Mr. Chairman, that this Association go on record 
as being in favor of this bill ; and that everything possible be done 
to encourage its passage. 

Member. I move to amend the motion by instructing that our 
corresponding secretary inform the proper persons of our action. 
(Adopted.) 

I would like to ask Mr. Bassett if he is acquainted with the 
proposed National Legislation for the inspection of nursery stock 
shipped into this country. 

Mr. Bassett. I am not acquainted with the details of that bill. 
I know that it is a good measure, because backed by the men who 
have the work in charge. It is a proper measure ; we supported it. 

E. C. Tyson. Professor Symons called my attention to 
this matter this morning. He said it was necessary for the State of 
Maryland to examine over a million specimens that came into the 
port of Baltimore in the year just past, thus making it necessary for 
Maryland to bear the expense of the inspection of nursery stock 
that was going through Maryland for other States. I do not re- 
member his figures ; but they found considerable quantities of Brown 
Tail Moth in these importations. I understand that Mr. Engle, our 
Nursery Inspector, and his assistant, spent several months in Phil- 
adelphia during this past season on that work. Some of that was 
intended for distribution through this State, of course, but some of 
it passed into other States. It is not proper for Pennsylvania to 
bear all the expense of that examination. All who have been read- 
ing the fruit papers this summer know what excitement was cre- 
ated through the importation of infected apple seedlings, which were 
distributed through parts of this State and New York. Fortunately 
the inspectors were able to follow it up, and quantities of the Brown 
Tail Moth were found and destroyed. It is a serious question. The 
New England States can tell us what it means. They are spending 



99 



hundreds of thousands of dollars every year, and are as yet unable 
to control the pest. The National Government should establish 
quarantine against nursery stock coming from across the water ,ac- 
companied by sufficient examination before it is distributed in this 
country, to guard against dissemination of this and other pests. 

Professor Symons was not sure of this matter being before 
Congress. It will probably come up during this present session. I 
think it is a very important matter. I would like to see our Associa- 
tion register its views on the subject, and to do what is possible 
to encourage the adoption of this regulation. 

Upon motion it was unanimously agreed that the Association 
support this measure. 

E. C. Tyson, I would like to ask Mr. Bassett if he was 
in attendance at the International Apple Growers' meeting at Buf- 
falo ; and what action was taken in regard to the Lafean Bill — what 
changes were made ? 

Mr. Bassett. I cannot do it ; I got tired and left. They ar- 
gued both for and against it. Eventually they made some changes, 
which were adopted. The Middle States fought it on account of the 
package; the Western States, like Missouri, even the Hood River 
Valley, fought it because they did not like to be dictated to in re- 
gard to the size and shape of package. 

E. C. Tyson. Many of the western growers have received 
the impression that they will be restricted to a certain shaped box, 
while it is simply a matter of capacity. The western growers insist 
that the balance of the United States accept the Winchester bushel 
as a bushel of apples. As you know, it is customary throughout this 
part of the United States, and at least as far west as the Mississippi, 
to heap the measure generously. The western growers pack their 
fruit in a box and send it East, to be sold on our markets as a bushel 
of apples, in competition with our heaped measure, which averages 
about 200 cubic inches more. " It is my opinion that we should try 
to have added to this bill, the requirement that every 
man who packs a barrel of apples for inter-state or for- 
eign shipment, be required to place his name and address 
on the head of the barrel. This provision is a part of the present 
bill in so far as the grower elects to take advantage of the privilege 
of marking the fruit ''standard." If he decides not to take advan- 
tage of that privilege, there is no part of the law that touches him. 
If you require a man to place his name and address on the head of 
the package, he is going to stop and think a good deal before he 
puts bad stufif on the inside of it ; and it occurs to me that just that 
one point will do more to correct the bad packing that has become 
so prevalent all over the East in the last few years, than anything 
else. 

Chairman. Do you wish to take any action in the matter ? 

C. J. Tyson. Mr. President: I move that this Association 
go on record as being in favor of the bill as now proposed ; and that 
our continued support be given to it ; and if the committee represent- 
ing the various organizations having the matter in charge, consider 
it necessary at any time during the winter that representatives of this 
association go to Washington to assist in the support of the bill, that 



lOO 



they be sent at the expense of this association. (]\Iotion was sec- 
onded and carried.) 

Mr. Bassett. I desire to express my appreciation of the kind- 
ness shown me while here. I came here prepared to have a good 
time and to meet good people. Mr. Hiester said this was one of the 
g"arden spots of the earth, and I believe ]\Ir. Hiester spoke the truth. 
I knew I was going to have a good time, and I was not disappointed. 
Though I know Michigan is a long ways off, if any of you ever 
come to Alichigan, I shall try to make it as pleasant for you as pos- 
sible. We have a good State Association, and are proud of our 
country; and you should be proud of yours. I was richly repaid 
for my trip, and shall carry pleasant recollections with me. 

The Fruit Committee will now make their report. Will call on 
]\Ir. Anderson. 



REPORT OF FRUIT COMMITTEE. 



Mr. Charles E. Bassett, Secretary of the ^Michigan State Hor- 
ticultural Association. 

Air. Albert T. Repp, President Xew Jersey Horticultural Asso- 
ciation. 

Joseph W. Anderson. Orchardist, and Director of the York 
County Agricultural Association. 

]\Ir. Anderson, on behalf of the Committee, made the following 
report : 

I want to say, I\Ir. Chairman, that I believe this is the first time 
I was appointed on a committee when the chairman of the committee 
declined to make the report. I believe they went down gently from 
the top of the list to the bottom of it, and I came right in at the bot- 
tom of the list. The chairman has placed me in a position that he 
observed himself was a critical and difiicult one to get through with 
without offending a Xew York man, an Oregon man, or some other 
man ; but then, I am safe, I believe ; I am near the Mason and Dixon 
line, and if I should make any statement that offends, I can just 
steal down across the line into ^Maryland, and avoid all further dif- 
ffculties. 

Almost anyone, I think, would be better able to make this re- 
port than I ; but then, in order to get you to accept my report, I 
suppose I must say that I do know some little about such things, 
having been connected with the York County Agricultural Associa- 
tion, as Director, for a number of years. York County has always 
claimed to have the best fruit in the State. Yes, York has good 
fruit, I must say ; but when it comes to butting up against anything 
like this, York County simply cannot do it. It is safe for me to say 
this, as I am a little way from York. I hope no one will carry this 
back ; but I honestly think we are completely beaten. As you know 
no premiums are offered. I should have been glad to have gone 
over the whole display and pass judgment on the best fruit. The 
only thing we can do is to make a general report and give premiums 
to all. I have no report written out. I tried to think of something 



lOI 

during the night ; I did succeed in getting some thoughts together ; 
but I have by this time forgotten more than half of them. Out in 
the West they talk of their beautiful sunsets, just as if they could 
see the sunsets out there better than we. Now, while it is perfectly 
natural and right for us to see our own possessions in a rosy light, 
yet I certainly wished I had my old goose quill pen with which I 
used to write in days gone by, so that I could pen some fitting tribute 
to this beautiful fruit display of Adams County. 

Some of the apples I see here are just as good as the Hood 
River Valley apples, — the kind I often take home with me to show 
•the folks the kind they raise out in the Hood River Valley and the 
West; the kind for which I often pay 25 cents when I get three 
apples. 

If I were away from here and anyone brought some of these 
apples to me for apples from that section of the West, I should not 
know the difference. I certainly congratulate you people on your 
great success in growing fruit. I do not think I will extend my 
report any farther than this. I thank you all very much for your 
attention, and if the report is satisfactory, hope you will accept it. 

Chester J. Tyson. I move that the report of the Fruit Com- 
mittee be accepted, and that a vote of thanks be extended these gen- 
tlemen for their services. (Unanimously carried.) 

Chester J. Tyson. I did hope that the committee would go a 
little further into the matter, and criticise the manner of display. 
We have been trying to get up an exhibit from the County for our 
State meeting. We have been successful in coming off with awards 
so far. We understand that we are to come up against more severe 
competition from time to time. The thing we want to know is, 
whether the plan we have adopted is the best way to display our 
fruit to advantage. If the committee could tell us anything about 
this, we should be glad to hear it. 

Mr. Anderson. If you had a large hall, and could have this 
fruit on lower platforms, and people pass around them, it would be 
very interesting and instructive ; but as you have no larger hall, I 
do not see how you could have done any better than you have. As 
the community becomes more wealthy, as I have no doubt you soon 
will, you can have a larger hall, and arrange your fruit in the way 
suggested. 

Member. We shall be pleased to hear from other members of 
the Committee, if they choose to make any remarks in this regard. 

Mr. Bassett. I will say, Mr. Chairman, in the matter of dis- 
playing fruit, it depends quite a little whether you are appealing to 
scientific judges or to the people who are passing by, and the general 
effect on their minds. If you are appealing- to competent judges, it 
is important that the fruit be perfectly sound. They care little 
whether the fruit be arranged in stars or crescents ; they want to 
known absolutely that the fruit is perfectly free from all imperfec- 
tions. Your arrangement would be perfectly satisfactory. 

The one thing I do want to criticise, however, is the absence 
of the stems of some of the fruits — a thing that may appear very 
small to you ; but when you come to apply to the professional judge, 
if you have lost the stem, he will give you a docking on that. The 
stem is a part of the apple ; and though we do not eat the stem, it is 



102 



MR. LEIGH, Superintendent, put on the N. Y. C. Stock Yards, Buffalo, 
N. Y., 40 tons (80,000 lbs.) of Cold Water Paint with these ...... 




WONDERFUL 
HAND 
MACHINES 

In this event the 

SPRAMOTOR 

has proven its value. 
A demonstration like this is more convincing 
than a book of arguments, and when we tell you 
that we received the Gold Medal at the National 
Horticultural Congress, Council Bluffs, you will 
be still further convinced. The SPRAMOTOR 
is guaranteed for a year, in all sizes, for Orchards, 
Potatoes, Painting, Whitewashing, Vineyard and 
Weed Destruction. All you have to do is to state 
what you want it for. If you are interested write 
us now, as a delay may mean a loss of money to 
you. For knapsack, barrel, tank, bucket, and also 
for horse powder and gasoline powder. 

SPRAMOTOR CO. 

1425 Erie Street BUFFALO, N. Y. 



SWIFTS 
Arsenate of Lead 



THE PERFECT INSECTICIDE 

Kills All Leaf-Eating Insects 
Sticks to the Leaves And Will Not Burn 
Improved Methods Increase Profits 

MADE ONLY BY THE 

MERRIMAC CHEMICAL CO. 

33 Broad Street^ Boston, Mass. 



103 



a valuable point of identification. The stem is often the means of 
telling" conclusively the variety that is presented. 

Another thing I want to criticise in your exhibit. In your se- 
lection of five apples — which should be a plate — you should be very 
careful to have the apples all of one size, all of one color — true to 
type — not overgrown. I believe there is a type for every variety ; 
and that where an apple is of the ordinary size — good, fair, ordinary 
size, of good high color, perfect in all respects, it is always given the 
preference to apples overgrown and not true to type. We are not 
exhibiting monstrosities, but specimens of what we expect to produce 
in our orchards. 

In a contest recently opened by a spray pump company, which 
offered a spray outfit as a premium for the best plate of Northern 
Spies, the outfit was awarded to a young man who had been in busi- 
ness only three years, simply because he went to the trouble of find- 
ing out what in their mind constituted a perfect plate of apples. The 
first thing that was done when the contest opened, was to eliminate 
from the twenty-six plates exhibited, twenty plates of monstrosi- 
ties, devoting their entire attention to six plates of good, fair-sized 
apples, true to type. 

Detailed Report of Fruit Exhibit. 

We find in this exhibit, 214 plates, as follows: 
Robert Garrettson, 6 plates — 

3 Plates York Imperial. 

1 Plate Langford Seedling. 

2 Plates Smith Cider. 
Curtis Peters, 10 plates — 

4 Plates Winter Paradise. 
6 Plates York Imperial. 

H. G. Baugher, 

I Plate Purple Top Globe Turnips of immense size, yield- 
ed this year at the rate of 400 bushels per acre. 
D. G. Minter, 5 plates — 

I Plate Coal. 

1 Plate York Imperial. 

2 Plates York Stripe. 
I Plate Jonathan. 

A uniformly good exhibit. 
C. E. Jones, Kearneysville, Va. 

1 Plate Mammoth Black Twig. 
H. M. Keller, 

2 Plates Winter Banana. 

Very fine fruit, attracted considerable attention. 
Rufus Lawver, 10 plates — 

2 Plates Paragon (highly colored) . 
2 Plates Wine Sap. 

1 Plate New Centennial. 

2 Plates Gano. 

2 Plates Seedlings (attractive red fruit, of medium size). 
I Plate well-colored fruit, resembling King (said to result 
from top-working Summer Pambo on natural stock). 



104 



J. C. HARRISON & SONS Props. 

We Grow 3 Million Peaches. 

2 Million Apples. 
100 Acres in Strawberry Plants. 

Over two thousand acres in cultivation of clean, well grown nursery stock 
for the commercial grower. You are invited tO visit US. 



BALE 
LOCK 

Extension 




OMEGA 




An entirely 
new locking 
device for 
fruit picking 
and general 
use, 



A Tripod step ladder 
particularly adapted 
for fruit picking. Light, 
rigid, strong and broad- 
based. All fiat steps. 

5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12 & 13 ft. 



Special two-section 
Sectional Ladders 
for fruit picking. 
Trestles, swing stage 
ladders, ladder 
brackets, ladder 
hooks, window 
jacks, extensi on 
plank, etc. 

If interested send 
for descriptive cata- 
logue and price list. 

J. S. TILLEY 

Manufacturer of 
LADDERS & STEP LADDERS 
of Every Description 

WATERYLIELN.Y. 



24, 26, 28, 32 & 36 ft. 



Represented in Pennsylvania by 
EDWIN C. TYSON, FLORA DALE, 
Wholesale Orchard Tools and Supplies 



BEST EXTENSION LADDER MADE 



PA. 



Arendtsville Planing Mill and Barrel Factory 



p. S. ORNER, Proprietor : : : ARENDTSVILLE, PA. 

M'fg, of Apple Barrels and MILLWORK 
Staves a Specialty of all DescriptioUy and 

PRICES LOW Lumber of all kinds 

Call, Phone or Write— United Phone 



* 



105 

C. E. Raffensperger, 5 plates — 

4 Plates York Imperial. 
I Plate Grime's Golden. 

All good specimens. 
E. P. Garrettson, 31 plates — 
14 Plates York Imperial. 
I Plate Balsley. 

1 Plate Summer Rambo. 

2 Plates Domine. 

I Plate Fallawater. 

1 Plate Romanite. 

2 Plates Smith Cider. 

2 Plates Cayuga Red Streak. 
2 Plates Baldwin. 

5 Plates York County Cheese. 

A large, interesting exhibit. 
Mrs. W. S. Morrison, 4 plates — 
I Plate Belmont. 

1 Plate Fallawater. 

2 Plates Wagner. 
Tyson Brothers, 14 plates — 

2 Plates Rhode Island Greenings. 
2 Plates Stayman. 

2 Plates York Stripe. 

1 Plate Wagner. 

7 Plates York Imperial. 

The color of the Stayman in this exhibit indicates that 
we need not fear on that score. 
C. A. Griest, 11 plates — 

3 Plates Grime's Golden. 

2 Plates York Imperial. 

2 Plates Baldwin. 

3 Plates York Stripe. 

1 Plate medium sized red fruit, for a name. 
R. M. Eldon, 16 plates— 

5 Plates Ben Davis. 
3 Plates Baldwin. 

2 Plates Summer Rambo. 
2 Plates Smith Cider. 

2 Plates Grime's Golden. 
2 Plates Dickinson. 

A clean, uniform, well-selected lot of fruit of high 

color, the Baldwin and Summer Rambo being woi 
thy of special mention. 
L. C. Hall, Avonia, Erie Co., Pa.— 

1 Plate Erie County grown English Walnuts. 

Kernels were found to be large, well-developed, and 
of fine flavor. 
Oscar Rice, 7 plates — 

2 Plates York Imperial. 

3 Plates Jonathan (highly colored). 
I Plate Baldwin (very large). 

I Plate Smokehouse. 



io6 



BAUGH& SONS COMPANY 

OF BALTIMORE CITY 

== MANUFACTURERS AND IMPORTERS = 

Pure Animal Bone 

Fertilizers 

Agricultural Chemicals 

Special Fertilizers 
for Fruit Trees 

BAUGH'S RAW BONE MANURES were first manufactured in a 
small way more than fifty years ago. All along the intervening years the 
control of these Oldest in America of all makes of Animal Bone Fertilizers 
has never passed out of the hands of the Original Manufacturers, 

BAUGH'S Raw Bone Manures have uninterruptedly held their prestige. 
The sales throughout the United States have been enlarging and extending year 
after year until they now amount to ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND TONS 
ANNUALLY. Their excellence is acknowledged wherever they are employ- 
ed. To-day they head the list. Although the oldest brands, yet they are ever 
the newest or most advanced products in scientific and mechanical perfection. 

APPLICATIONS of make-do fertilizers, whose cheap ingredients are 
exclusively derived from mineral, vegetable, refuse and other low grade 
sources, have often been attended with failure. Never under similar favorable 
conditions have the results from Baugh's Raw Bone Manures been disappoint- 
ing. While satisfactory immediate results from the use of any fertilizer can- 
not be guaranteed, yet consumers can wnth confidence rely on sooner or later 
getting paying returns from Animal Bone Manures. DEALERS WANTED 
IN UNASSIGNED TERRITORY. 

FOR SALE BY 

G. W. KOSER H. D. & C. C. BREAM WAYBRIGHT RICE 

BIGLERVILLE, PA. GETTYSBURG, PA. ASPERS, PA. 

J. U. RUFF D. B. MYERS 

NEW OXFORD, PA. IDAVILLE, PA. 

Baugh's 1910 Almanac Just out. Ask your dealer for it or write us. 



m BOl 

ERTILIZEI 

200 LBS. 

uMNmi) mmm is*^, 

iAUGH&SOKI 



107 



Anthony Deardorff, 6 plates — 
I Plate Ben Davis. 
I Plate York Imperial. 
I Plate Smith Cider. 
I Plate Red Doctor. 
I Plate York Stripe. 

1 Plate Willow Twig. 

Every specimen perfect and well-colored. 
B. F. Wilson, 34 plates — 
II Plates York Imperial. 

2 Plates Rawl's Janet. 
2 Plates Mann. 

4 Plates Baldwin. 

2 Plates Winter Paradise. 

I Plate Domine. 

1 Plate Fallawater. 

2 Plates English Red Streak. 
4 Plates Smokehouse. 

4 Plates Jonathan. 

1 Plate medium-sized fruit, for name. 

A very fine lot of fruit; Jonathan and Smokehouse 
specially good. Some stems missing. 
George Oyler, 18 plates — ■ 

2 Plates Red Doctor. 

2 Plates Grime's Golden. 

1 Plate Rawl's Janet. 

2 Plates Black Twig. 

3 Plates York Stripe. 

2 Plates York Imperial (very good). 

3 Plates Ben Davis. 
2 Plates Wine Sap. 
I Plate Joanthan. 

Wolfe Brothers, 

5 Plates York Imperial. 
William S. Adams, 18 plates — 

I Plate Fallawater. 
I Plate Grime's Golden. 
I Plate Red Doctor. 
I Plate Winter Rambo. 
I Plate Baldwin. 
I Plate Wagner. 

1 Plate Sutton Beauty (very large). 

2 Plates York Imperial. 

1 Plate Domine. 

2 Plates Peck's Pleasant. 

1 Plate York Stripe. 

2 Plates Stark. 

I Plate Smokehouse. 
I Plate Hubbardston. 

I Plate, for name (wrongly marked Shackelford). 
J. Kerr Sterrett, Oakville, Pa.— 

I Plate Jonathan. Very highlv colored. 
J. W. Prickett — 

6 Plates Stayman. Very large and well colored. 



io8 



W. S. ADA/VVS 

/\SRERS, 

DEALER IN ALL KINDS OF 

Lumber, Lath, Shingles, Steam 
and Trolly Ties, Toles, 'Ltc. 

Potatoes, Apples, Peaches and Plums 
in season. 



ESTABLISHED 1850 1,200 ACRES 




WE ARE WHOLESALE GROWERS OF 

First Class Nursery Stock 

OF ALL KINDS 

Fruit, Shade, Ornamental Trees, Shrubbery, Hedges, Small 
Fruits, Etc., Asparagus, Strawberries and California Privet 

IN LARGE QUANTITIES 

The BEST is the CHEAPEST. Ours is the CHEAPEST because it is 
the BEST. Handling Dealers' orders a specialty. Catalogue free. 

Franklin Davis Nursery Company 

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 



109 



Adams County Fruit Records 

Shipments Over Gettysburg & Harrisburg R. R. 



Gettysburg . . . . 
(G. & H. R. R.) 



Biglerville. 



Guernsey. 



Bendersville 



Gardners , 



Starners. 



Hunters Run 
(Goodyear) 



G. & H. R. R. 

Total 



1905 
1906 

1907 
1909 



1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 

1903 

1905 
1906 

1907 
1908 
1909 

1903 

1905 

1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 

1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 



28 
127 
12 



1903 8813 

1905 7932 

1906 2785 

1907 17164 

1908 4956 

1909 10785 



2870 
I77I 
I414 
4798 
2173 
7320 

4163 
4000 
1 109 
2824 
2264 
3531 

997 
912 

6905 

433 
2275 

682 
664 

1572 
487 

1825 



1903 625 

1905 160 

1906 295 

1907 1417 

1908 1704 

1909 j 1289 

1903 117468 

1905 15617 

1906 6295 

1907 134797 

1908 12017 

1909 27037 



333 ! 651 

....I 28 

1 127 

... I 12 



987 i 9800 
7932 
2950 
21380 
4956 
10922 



165 
4216 



137 

2413 
1 166 
1329 
2760 



2351 
1561 

6268 



985 
5215 



5440 

4571 

1016 

133 
219 



5283 
2937 
2743 
7858 
2173 
7320 

4163 

6351 
2670 
9092 
2264 
4731 

1982 
6127 



160 
262 
514 



510 

4385 



3450 
19217 



6426 



12345 
433 
6846 

1698 

797 
1791 

487 
1833 

625 
320 
557 
1931 
1704 
^ 1799 

21853 
25525 
I 9745 
54014 
I [2017 

I33463 



65 
53 
20 
142 
33 
73 

35 
20 
18 
52 

J5 
49 

28 
42 
18 
61 
15 
32 

13 
41 



82 

3 
46 



4 
2 

4 
13 
II 
12 

146 
170 

65 
360 

80 
223 



:2 72-8 72 S 
i;3 e2_, ^-5 



. o 

e m : 
S5~ 



.0^ 



$2 25 



1 00 

2 20 

1 40 

2 50 



v2 Scu 



70 
50 

75 
50 



2 35 

1 50 

2 50 



I 50 



2 25 

1 40 I . . 

2 50 I 



I 50 



50 



I 75 



50 



35 



1 50 

2 50 



$ 50 
65 
55 



I 50 
I 75 

1 50 

2 50 



75 

85 



1 45 

2 50 



75 
I 50 



50 
65 
50 



50 



65 
55 



50 
50 



65 
55 



Gardners — 1906, 2 cars pears ; 1907, i car pears ; 1908, 2 cars pears. 
Bendersville — 1908, 2 cars pears. 
Hunters Run — 1908, i car pears. 



no 



G. P. READ 

1 09 Duane Street ::: NEW YORK 

Apple Barrel Cushions 
Corrugated Caps 

Lace Circles, Etc. 
Strawberry Baskets 
Crates 

Grape Baskets 
Half Barrel Baskets 

QUOTATIONS GLADLY FURNISHED ON REQUEST 



Ill 



Adams County Fruit Records— (Continued) 

Shipments Over Western Maryland R. R. 





Year 


No. Bbls. shipped 
in Bbls. 


No. Bbls. shipped 
In Bulk 


No. Bbls. Total 


No. Cars Apples 
(ISObbU.tocar) 


No. can potatoes 
1 (500 bus. to car) 


Av. price paid 
per Bbl. 


Av. price paid 
per bbl. for bulk 


Av. price paid 
per bus. potatoes 


Fairfield 


IHtll laSH 111 HI im illl Him HIHI HI HH^ 


1215 

300 
300 


809 


2024 
300 
300 


13 
2 
2 


3 
2 
2 




Virginia Mills 








1 




























320 


8800 
1620 
15 19 


9120 
1620 
1845 

3300 
1062 
3659 
5519 
3706 
1581 

3438 
8073 

2550 
4548 
2036 

28 

63 
42 
50 

13 
18 

23 
22 

1033 


61 
1 1 
12 

22 

7 
24 

^7 

2"; 
10 

23 

=14 
17 
30 
13 

6s 
0 












I 








326 

3300 
1062 
3659 
3177 
2686 
741 

789^ 

2296 

3393 
1785 
7724 

28 
63 
42 
50 

13 
18 

23 
22 






































2342 
1020 
840 




$2 00 


$1 50 






2 40 


T CO 




Seven Stars 


178 
254 

II55 
251 

2030 


I 

3 

V% ' 

/3 








I 00 
I 75 


I 00 

I St: 


47 
50 


T cn 




Gettysburg .... 


















































(W. M. R. R.) 

Nevi^ Oxford 






































1033 


7 










Abbottstown 














276 
618 


276 
1000 


2 
7 










382 










East Berlin 


























50 
1 140 

49 




50 
2333 

49 












W. M. R. R .... 

Total 


1 193 


15 


y2 


1 80 

2 25 


90 
2 25 


70 
60 






10 

6738 
10380 

7447 
7720 

4536 
8873 


205 


215 

6738 
1 1 700 

8894 
21668 

7427 
13743 


2 

45 
78 
59 
144 
49 
91 


















1320 
1447 
13948 
2891 
4870 


5 
3 
7 
I 














1 75 

2 50 






I 50 





112 



Insure Your Property in 

The Adams County 

Mutual Fire 
Insurance Comp'y 

HOME OFFICE : GETTYSBURG 

D. P. Mcpherson, President 

G. H. BUEHLER, Secretary 

J. ELMER MUSSELMAN, Treasurer 
MANAGERS 



H. C. Picking, Gettysburg 

J. W. Taughinbaugh Hunterstown 

I. S. Miller, East Berlin 

J. D. Neiderer, McSherrystown 

D. R. MussELMAN, Fairfield 

Abia Smucker, Littlestown 

C. L. LoNGSDORF, Biglerville 

John N. Hersh, New Oxford 



Harvey A. Scott, Gettysburg, R. F. D. 4. 



TREES 

Have to Offer 
FIRST CLASS NURSERY STOCK 

In Large or Small Quantities 

Fruit, Shade, Ornamental Trees, 
Shrubbery, Hedges, Small Fruit, 
Asparagus, Strawberries, California 
Privet, Locu^ and Catalpa Speci- 
osa for timber. 

Also Large and Small 
SPRAY PUMPS AND FITTINGS 

CALL, WRITE OR PHONE 

BATTLEFIELD NURSERIES 

GETTYSBURG, PA. 
C. A. STONER. Prop. 

OFFICE AND PACKING GROUNDS: 
42 West High Street 



DOUGHERn & HARTLEY 

Dry Goods and Notions ^ 
Ladies^ and Children's Coats 

Come and see Our Splendid Line of Season- 
able Goods 

GETTYSBURG, PA. 



113 

Adams County Fruit Records — {Continued) 

Total Fruit Marketed in County. 



Total shipped , 



Evaporated, 



Canned. 



Cider (loooooo gals.), 



Total fruit. 



1903 

1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 

1903 
1905 
1907 
1908 
1909 

1905 
1907 
1908 
1909 

1907 
1908 
1909 

1903 

1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 



2 c: 



24206 
25997 
13742 
42517 
16553 
359^0 



24206 
25997 
13742 
42517 
16553 
35910 



4385 
1 1228 

4897 
33165 

2891 
1 1296 

6547 
10670 

8333 



4666 

2400 
10000 

r673 
12398 

9524 
6670 

5714 

10932 
24298 
4897 
61022 
1 1234 
34074 



28591 
37225 
18639 
75682 

19444 
47206 

6547 
10670 

8333 



4666 

2400 
10000 

1673 
12398 

9524 

6670 

5714 

35138 

50295 
18639 

103539 
27787 
69984 



191 
248 
124 
5«4 
129 

314 

44 
71 
56 



31 

16 
67 

82 

63 
44 
38 

234 
335 
124 
690 
185 
465 



v. .A 



%\ 50 

2 50 



% 75 
I 50 



75 



2 25 

1 50 

2 50 



I 75 
75 
I 50 



$ 60 
50 



55 
60 

50 



Comparison of Percentages 



Year 


Per cent, 
barreled 


Per cent, 
sold bulk 


Per cent, 
evaporated 


Per cent, 
canned 


Per cent, cider 


Per cent, total 
fruit compared 
to 1903 


1903 


70 


12 


18 






100% 








1905 


52 


22 


26 






143% 






1907 


41 


32 


8 


10 


9 


295% 


1909 


51 


16 


7 


18 


8 


200% 



114 



EVERYTHING FOR 

THE ORCHARD 



''NOT THE CHEAPEST— BUT THE BEST" 
Exclusive Pennsylvania Representatives of 

SUSQUEHANNA FERTILIZER CO. 

High grade goods for orchard use 
Reliable brands for farm and truck crops 

GRASSELLI CHEMICAL COMPANY 

Lime-Sulphur Solution, none better 
Full line Insecticides, Fungicides 

B. G. PRATT COMPANY 

"Scalecide" (Soluble Oil) — The tree saver 
Sulfocide (The new Fungicide) 

BOWKER INSECTICIDE COMPANY 

Disparene — (Noted insect destroyer) 

Pyrox — (Excellent Fungicide and Insecticide) 

Jobbers of GOULDS SPRAYERS 
Brown's "Auto-Spray" 
Tilley Orchard Ladders 
Iron Age Potato Machinery 
Pruning Tools, Hose and Fittings 

Catalogs Mailed on Application Agents Wanted in Unoccupied Territory 



EDWIN C. TYSON 

FLORA DALE, PA. 



INDEX 



Addresses — 

"President's," .- 15-17 

"Orchard Fertilization," 21-36 

"Essential Elements of Success in Fruit Growing," 36-40 

"Getting Together," 40-45 

"Discussion of Various Nursery Methods of Propagation for 

Best Orchard Results," 45-53 

"Inter-Cropping of Young Orchards with Special Reference 

to Adams County," 53-62 

"Some Experiments with Commercial Lime-Sulphur as a Spray 

for Fruit Diseases," 62-72 

"Practical Demonstration in the Boxing of Apples," 72-81 

"Spraying for San Jose Scale and Codling Moth," 81-92 

"Practical Principles of Profitable Peach Production," 92-97 

Apples — 

Packages, 18 

Varieties, 38 

When to Pick, 73, 

Grading, 74 

Wrapping, 76 

Scab on, 62 

French Seedling Recommended, 49 

From Unsprayed Trees (Illustration), 90 

Amendments, 13 

Arsenate of Lead, 37,63,90,97,102 

With Lime-Sulphur Solution, 65 

Anderson, Jos. W., 52,60,61,101 

Anderson, H. M., 85 

Adams, W. S., , 84, 108 

Adams County Mutual Fire Insurance Co. (Adv.), 112 

Advertisers — 

American Agricultural Chemical Co. (Fertilizers), 2 

Bateman Mfg. Co. (Cultivators and Sprayers), 4 

Biglerville Warehouse Company (Fertz., Lumb., Grain, Coal), 6 

Goulds Mfg. Co. (Sprayers), 8 

Bowker Insecticide Co. (Spray Materials), 10 

Atlantic Fertilizer Co. (Fertilizers), 12 

Grasselli Chemical Co. (Spray Materials), 14 

B. G. Pratt Co. (Spray Materials), 16 

Spramotor Co. (Spray Machinery), 102 

Merrimac Chemical Co. (Spray Materials), 102 

J. G. Harrison & Sons (Nursery Stock), 104 

John S. Tilley (Ladders), 104 

P. S. Orner (Barrels), 104 

Baugh & Sons Co. (Fertilizers), 106 

W. S. Adams (Lumber and Fruit), 108 

Franklin-Davis Nursery Co. (Nursery Stock), loS 

G. P. Reed (Packages and Cushions), no 

Adams County Mutual Fire Insurance Co. (Insurance), 112 

Battlefield Nurseries (Nursery Stock), 112 

Dougherty & Hartley (Dry Goods) 112 

Edwin C. Tyson (Everything for the Orchard), 114 

Adams County Fruit Records — 

Gettysburg & Harrisburg R. R. Shipments, 109 

Western Maryland R. R. Shipments, in 

Total Fruit, 113 

115 



ii6 



B 

Bateman ^Ifg. Co. (Adv.), 4 

Biglerville Warehouse Co. (Adv.), 6 

Bowker Insecticide Co. (Adv.), lo 

Bv-laws 15 

Busey, Rev. B. P. S., 17 

Boxes — 

Standard for Apples, '. 18 

Advantages of, 45 

For Orchard Use, 73 

Reasons for Using, 73 

^Material for, 25, 80 

Cost of jMaking, 80 

Barrels — 

Standard for Apples, 18, 104 

Buying Co-operatively, 44 

Cushions, Caps and Circles for, no 

Bordeaux Mixture, 37,63,91 

Russetting, Caused by (Illustration), 64 

Business Methods, Importance of, 43 

Budded Trees, Advantage of, 47 

Bud Selection, 50 

Blight of Pears, 50, 66 

Brown Rot of Peach, 62 

Black Rot Canker, 67 

Bacterial Collar Rot, 68 

Baldwin Spot 71 

Basic Slag, 38 

Bassett, C. E., 40, 52, 61, 66, 68, 70, 92. 97. loi 

Black, W. H., 86 

Baugh & Sons Co. (Adv.), 106 

Battlefield Nurseries (Adv.), 112 

C 

Cultivating ^Machinery, 4,39,96 

Constitution, 13 

Color, Cause of, ■ 23,26,28,32,38 

Cultural Methods, 28,93 

Crude Oil as Spray, 37 

Codling ]\Ioth, Treatment for, 37, 96 

Cold Storage, 39 

Co-operation, Advantage of, 40, 81 

Central Packing Houses, 43 

Crops for Orchards, 57 

Cover Crops, 59, 61, 95 

Controlling Fire Blight, 66 

Commercial Lime-Sulphur, 62 

Canker, New York Apple,, and Black Rot, 67 

Cost of Packing Apple Boxes, 80 

D 

Dues, 13 

Duties of Officers, 15 

Discussion Following Address of 

Prof. Stewart, 35 

Mr. Repp, 38 

i\Ir. Bassett, 44, 95 

Prof. Wright, 48 

Prof. Watts, 58 

Prof. Whetzel, .• 65 

Mr. Vincent, 79 

Prof. Symons, 90 

Dried Blood 35 



117 



Details of Packing, 75 

Dunlap, J. ^L, 91 

Davis, Franklin & Co. (Adv.), 108 

Dry Goods, Etc., 112 

E 

Executive Committee — 

List of, 3 

Dutv of, 15 

Eldon, R. M., 17, 86, 92, 97 

Effect of Fertilizer on Color and Growth, 23 

Of ^lanures on Yield, 31 

Of Lime Sulphur on Apple Scab, 64 

Experiments of Cultural Methods 28, 33 

With Commercial Lime Sulphur as a Spray for Fruit Diseases, 62 

"Essential Elements of Success in Fruit Growing," 36 



F 



Fennville Fruit Shippers' Association, 41 

Fruit Growing, Interest in, 53 

Fire Blight, 66 

Fenstermacher, P. S., 66 

Field Laboratories, 67 

Fungous Collar Rot, 68 

Fruit Spots, 72 

Fohl, Geo., 85 

Formula for Bordeaux ]vlixture, 91 

Fruit Committee, 37 

Report of, 100 

Fruit Exhibit, 103 

Adams County Records, 109,111, 113 

Fertilizers, 2, 6, 12, 95, 106, 1 14 

Experiments, 22 

Influence on Color and Growth, 23 

Financial Value of, 26 

Formula Recommended for Trees, 35.38,60 

For Potatoes, 54, 60 

Tables, 22-7-8-9,31-2-3 

Fungicides, 10, 14, 16, 37, 114 

Fungus, Proper Time to Spray for, 72 



G 

Goulds Mfg. Co. (Adv.), 8 

Grasselli Chemical Co. (Adv.), 14 

Good Roads, Importance of, 42, 44 

"Getting Together," 40 

Gasoline Engine Sprayers, 69 

Garrettson, E. P., 70 

Grading, 74, 80, 81 

Board for (Illustration), 74 

Grove, W. E., 80 

Gettysburg & Harrisburg R. R. (Fruit Shipments Over), 109 

H 

Hurrying an Apple Orchard 68 

Harrison, J. G. & Sons (Adv.^ 104 

Heading Apple Trees, 33,46 

I 

Insecticides, 10, 14, 16, 37, 102. 1 14 

Influence of Stock on Scion, 51 

"Inter-Cropping of Young Orchards with Special Reference to 

Adams County," 53 



ii8 

Interest in Fruit Growing, 53 

Illustrations — 

Results of Spraying with Lime Sulphur (Figs, i, 2, 3), 63, 64 

Grading Board (Fig. 10), 74 

Packing Table (Fig. i), 75 

Diagonal Pack (Fig. 2), 77 

^lethod of Starting (Fig. 3), 78 

Proper Bulge (Fig. 4),^ 78 

Side View of Boxes (Fig, 5), 79 

Nailing Press (Fig. 6), 79 

Apples from Unspra3^ed Trees (Fig. 7), 90 

Apples Spra3'ed Once with Arsenate of Lead (Fig. 8), 91 

Identif3nng Fire Blight, 66 

Insecticide Law, Proposed, 97 

Insurance, 112 

J 

Judging Committee, 39 

Report of, 100 

K 

Koser, G. W. (Adv.), 6, 12, 106 

Kaines, G., 52 

L 

Lafean Apple Package & Grade Bill, 18,99 

Lime on Orchards, 35^38 

To Produce Color, 39 

Ladders Best for Orchard, 39, 104 

Lime Sulphur as a Spraj^ for Fruit Diseases (Illustrated), 62,63,64 

For Brown Rot of Peach, ■ 65 

Scott's Self-Boiled, 65 

For San Jose Scale, 82 

Commercial and Home-made Compared, 83 

^lethod of Making, 86 

AVhat Part Effective in Kiljing Scale, 89 

Strength to Use Commercial, 89 

Lecanium Scale, 87 

Treatment for, 89 

Little Peach, 96 

Lumber, 6, 108 

M 

Membership — 

Roll of, 5 

Constitutional Requirement for, 13 

Manures, Effect of, 31 

Massachusetts Experiment on x\pples, 33 

Muriate of Potash, 35 

Marketing, Best Plan for, 44,81 

Sweet Corn, 59 

Myers, L. M., 86 

Alerrimac Chemical Co. (Adv.), 102 

N * 

Nitrogen, Best form for Trees, 35 

New Jersey Methods, 3^ 

Nursery Methods, Description of, 45 

Nursery Stock, Rules for Ordering, 46 

Grown to Order, 47 

Home Growing Condemned, 52 

National Inspection of, 98 



119 

New York Apple Canker, 67 

Niagara Gas Sprayer, 69 

Nozzles, , 70 

Nailing Press (Ilhis.), 79 

Nurseries, 104, 108, 112 

O 

Officers — 

List of, 3 

Consist of, 13 

Duties of, 15 

Initiation of, , 15 

Object of Association, 13 

Order of Business, 15 

"Orchard Fertilization," 21 

Organization, Advantage of, 43 

Orchards, Potatoes in, 54 

Sweet Corn in, 55 

Cabbage in, 57 

Small Fruits in, • 57 

Tomatoes in, 58 

Orchard Boxes, 73 

Oil Sprays, 84 

Osage Orange Hedges Condemned, 87 

Oils Recommended for Peach Lecanium, 89 

Orner, P. S. (Adv.), 104 

P 

Potato ^Machinery, 4 

Pratt Co, B. G. (Adv.), 16 

President's Address, 17 

Packages, Standard for Apples, 18 

Potash, Best Form of, 35 

Pruning Apple Trees, 38 

Pears, Varieties of, 38 

Blight, 50 

Piece Root vs. AA'hole Root, 50 

Peters, Earl, 50 

Powell, George T, 51 

Pedigreed Trees Recommended, .• 52 

Potato Growing in Orchards, 54 

Peach, Leaf Curl, 62 

Brown Rot of, 65 

Lecanium, 87 

Growing of, •. 92 

Varieties of, 93 

Yellows, 95 

Prickett, J. \\ 68 

Power Sprayers, 68 

Objections to, 69 

Pressure recommended, 70 

Proper Time to Spra}^ for Fungus, 72 

Pail Recommended for Picking Apples 73 

"Practical Demonstration in the Boxing of Apples," . 73 

Profit in Boxing Apples, 73 

Picking Bag, 74 

"Practical Principles of Profitable Peach Production," 92 

Packing — 

Plea for Honest, 19 

Houses, 74 

Tables (Illus.), 75 

Styles of, 76 

vStarting (Illus.), 77 

Proper Bulge in (Illustration), 78 

Boxes, Cost of, 80 

Paris Green, 90 



120 



R 



Repp, Albert T., 36,66 

Root Grafting, Advantage of, 47,49 

Roberts, Horace, 55 

Raspberries, 59 

Russetting of Bordeaux, 64 

Red Bug, 71 

Reed, G. R (Adv.), no 



S 

Spray Apparatus, 4, 8, 39, 68, 102, 114 

Spray Materials, 10, 14, 16, 102, 114 

Standard Apple Boxes, 18 

Insecticides, 98 

Stewart, Prof. J. P., 21 

Sulphate of Potash, 35 

Sod Mulch, 28,29,30,35 

Success in Fruit Growing, 36 

San Jose Scale, Remedv for, 37, 82 

Slag (Basic), For Trees, 38 

Selection of Apple Seedlings, 50 

Sweet Corn in Orchards, 55, 57 

Small Fruits, 57 

Spraying, Time for, 63 

Spraying in Summer to Remove Scale from Fruit, 70 

Side View of Boxes After Nailing (Illus.), 79 

Spraying for San Jose Scale and Codling Moth, 81 

Symons, Prof. Thos. B., 81 

Spramotor Co. (Adv.), 102 

Stoner, C. A. (Adv.), 112 

T 

Tillage Experiments, 28 

Transportation Charges Lowered by Co-operation, 42 

Trees- 
Propagation of, 45 

Heading of, 46 

Advantage of Budding, 47 

Advantage of Pedigreed, 48 

Tomatoes, 58 

Time for Spraying, 63 

Terrapin Scale, 87 

Trimming Peach Trees, 96 

Tilley, John S. (Adv.), 104 

U— V 

Varieties, Pears, 38 

Apples, 38 

Peaches, 93 

Vincent, C. C, 66,68,72 

Vote of Thanks, 97 

W 

Wright, Prof. W. J., 45, 60 

Watts, Prof. R. L., 50, 53 

Whetzel, Prof. H. H., 62 

When to Pick Apples, 73 

Wrapping Apples, 76 

Western Maryland Railroad, Shipments Over, 11 



Sixth Annual Convention will be Held 
December 14, I5> I6, 1910 



^ixth Annual Conbentton 




Proceedings for 
The Year 1910 



Held at Bendersville ^^^^^ Pennsylvania 
Dec. Fourteenth, Fifteenth and Sixteenth 



THE 



Fruit Growers Association 

of Adams County 

Pennsylvania 

ORGANIZED DECEMBER 18, 1903 



PROCEEDINGS 

OF THE 

SIXTH ANNUAL CONVENTION 

HELD IN 

Fruit Growers Hall, Bendersville, Penna. 
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 
Dec. 14, 15, 16, 1910 



2 





It rests with you 
whether your apples 
are wormy, whether 
your trees lose 
their foliage and 
are eaten by disease. 
You can prevent all 
these losses by using 

Goulds 

S P R AYE/RS 

They make it possible to spray thoroughly with a fine, even mist that 
covers every leaf and inch of bark without wasting the liquid and 
without extra hard work. 

Don't buy a cheap sprayer; it makes the work harder and is always 
out of order — they always cost more in the end. 

Gould's ^Sprayers last for years. All working parts 
are made of broii?'^ to withstand chemical action of spray 
solutions. "You can always depend on a Goulds." 

Send for Our booklet 

How to Spray — When to Spray — 

What Sprayers to use," 

It contains most valuable information about 
sprayers and sprayingr mixtures; how and when 
to use and all about them. We'll be glad to mail 
this to you if you say so, on a postal. 

THE GOULDS MFG. CO. 

1 1 3 W. Fall St., Seneca Falls, N.Y. 

We make hand and power pumps 
for every service. 





MAY 2 ran 



3 



Officers 

President, Robijrt M. Eldon^ Aspers 

1st Vice President, C. J. Tyson, Flora Dale 

2nd Vice President, C. A. GriEst, Guernsey 

2,rd Vice President, C. E. Rai<i?enspergivR Arendtsville 

4th Vice President, E. P. Garrettson Biglerville 

Sth Vice President, J. G. Stover, M. D., Bendersville 

Recording Secretary, Josiah W. PrickETt, Biglerville 

Corresponding Secretary, ....Edwin C. Tyson, Flora Dale 

Treasurer, Wm. S. Adams, Aspers 

Executive Committee 

Robert M. Eedon, Aspers 

C. J. Tyson, Flora Dale 

C. A. GriEst, Guernsey 

C. E. RaEEEnspERGER, Arendtsville 

E. P. Garrettson, Biglerville 

J. G. Stover, M. D., Bendersville 

Josiah W. Prickett Biglerville 

Edwin C. Tyson, Flora Dale 

Wm. S. Adams, Aspers 

Membership Roll 

Adams, Wm. S., Aspers, Pa. 

Adams, Mrs. W. S., • Aspers, Pa. 

Asper, D. C., Aspers, Pa. 

Asper, Chas. F., Aspers, Pa. 

Anderson, H. W., Stewartstown, Pa. 

Anderson, Joseph W., Stewartstown, Pa. 

Anderson, H. M., New Park, Pa. 

Arnold, J. Raymond, York, Pa. 

Armold, Wm. H., Gettysburg, R. F. D., Pa. 

Bream, Samuel, Biglerville, Pa. 

Bream, Dill, Bendersville, Pa. 

Bream, Wm. E., Biglerville, Pa. 

Bream, H. J., Aspers, Pa. 

Bream, M. F., York Springs, Pa. 

Boyer, W. W., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Black, Wm. H., Flora Dale, Pa. 

Baugher, H. G., Aspers, Pa. 

Baugher, Ira, Aspers, Pa. 

Baugher, Martin, Aspers, Pa. 

Bucher, John, Bendersville, Pa. 

Boyer, Martin, Biglerville, Pa. 

Belt, J. E., Wellsville, Pa. 

Butt, J. E., Gettysburg, Pa. 



4 



Apple Barrel Cushions 

and 

Corrugated Caps 

^The progressive fruit growers use 
my goods. 

^ Corrugated Caps protect your fruit 
on the face end of the barrel from flat 
marks, bruises, etc. 

^ Cushions prevent bruising on the 
pressed end and take up slack on those 
barrels which have been stored. 

^ Write for samples. 

G. P. READ 

1 99 Duane Street :: New York 



5 



Rosier, Frank C, Carlisle, Pa. 

Brough, Edward, Biglerville, Pa. 

Busey, Rev. B. P. S., Bendersville, Pa. 

Bassett, Charles E. Fennville, Mich. 

Batterman, D. F., Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Boyer, George E., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Butler, Allen, Elkins Park, Pa. 

Bushman, S. F., Gettysburg, R. F. D., Pa. 

Bushey, J. Blain, Biglerville, Pa. 

Brandt, John Ira, Mount Joy, Pa. 

Behrhorst, C. E., Pittsburg, Pa. 

Baltzley, S. L., Orrtanna, Pa. 

Cocklin, Miss Alice, Bowmansdale, Pa. 

Cocklin, J. A., Siddonsburg, Pa. 

Cocklin, B. F., Mechanicsburg, R. F. D., Pa. 

Cook, Arthur E., Aspers, Pa. 

Cook, J. W., Flora Dale, Pa. 

Crawford, John B., Fayetteville, Pa. 

Cushman, G. R., Baltimore, ^Id. 

Cluck, J. C, Biglerville, Pa. 

Carey, Calvin, Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Carson, E. E., Bendersville, Pa. 

Cole, A. W., Orrtanna, R. F. D.. Pa. 

Crum, Levi, Biglerville, Pa. 

Grouse, E. A., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Deardorff, Anthony, Mummasburg, Pa. 

Deardorflf, Henry, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Deardorff, H. W., Tillie, Pa. 

Deardorff, W. B., Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5. Pa. 

Deardorff", J. A., Cashtown, Pa. 

Dull, Thomas, Aspers, Pa. 

Dunlap, James M., Walnut Bottom, Pa. 

Dunlap, F. S., Newville, Pa. 

Day, T. F., Aspers, Pa. 

Dougherty, Dorsey, Gettysburg, Pa. 

Eldon, Robert M., Aspers, Pa. 

Eldon, Mrs. R. M., Aspers, Pa. 

Engle, E. B., Harrisburg, Pa. 

Eppleman, John, Jr., Aspers, Pa. 

Eppleman, J. W., Aspers, Pa. 

Everhart, G. W., York, Pa. 

Elliott, Chas. H Philadelphia, Pa. 

Eiholtz, S. Mc, Biglerville, Pa. 

Finnefrock, Thomas, Bendersville, Pa. 

Fohl, George E., Biglerville, Pa. 

Fiddler, F. B., Aspers, Pa. 

Forney, D. J., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Funt, J. W., Biglerville, Pa. 



6 



The One Best Remedy for 

SAN JOSE SCALE 

as well as all other scale insects that infest the orchard, is 

Bowker's Lime-Sulphur 

(CONCENTRATED SOLUTION) 

ALL READY TO USE by adding clear water; one 
gallon Bowker's makes 1 0 of spraying solution. Every tree 
in your orchard, whether known to be infested or not, should 
be sprayed THIS winter with Bowker's Lime-Sulphur. 

Send for Special Circular 

UrWXlWU INSECTICIDE COMPANY 
OVJWJS.Lr\ 43 Chatham Street. BOSTON. 



Sticks Like Paint 
Rain Won't Wash It Off 

BOWKER'S 



PYROX 

C The one best all around spray for all fruits and vegetables. 
Kills all leaf-eating insects and prevents fungus troubles, 
blights, leaf spots, leaf curl, etc. 

C POTATO BUGS and other leaf-eating insects attacking 
garden vegetables, melons, cucumbers, beans, etc., are de- 
stroyed, and the many fungus troubles affecting these crops 
are prevented by the timely use of Bowker's Pyrox. 

BOWKER INSECTICIDE CO., 

43 Chatham Street, : : : BOSTON 



7 

Griest, C. Arthur, Guernsey, Pa. 

Griest, Mrs. C. A., Guernsey, Pa. 

Griest, C. S., Guernsey, Pa. 

Griest, A. W., Baltimore, Md. 

Griest, Frederic E., Philadelphia, Pa. 

Garrettson, J. V., Aspers, Pa. 

Garrettson, Frank, Aspers, Pa. 

Garrettson, Eli P., Biglerville, Pa. 

Garrettson, Harriet, Biglerville, Pa. 

Garrettson, J. B., Aspers, Pa. 

Garrettson, Robert, Flora Dale, Pa. 

Garrettson, John, Aspers, Pa. 

Garrettson, Eli, Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 6, Pa. 

Grove, W. E., York Springs, Pa. 

Gardner, L. M., Jr., York Springs, Pa. 

Gochnauer, J. D., York Springs, R. F. D., Pa. 

Gochnauer, Jacob S., Aspers, Pa. 

Gracey, Robert, Newville, Pa.. 

Gove, Mary E., Bendersville, Pa. 

Guise, D. H., Enimittsburg, Md. 

Gardner, C. W., York Springs, Pa. 

Haskell, H. F., Uriah, Pa. 

Hiester, Gabriel, Harrisburg, Pa. 

Heyser, Wm., Jack's Mountain, Pa. 

Harrison, Orlando, Berlin, Md. 

House, O. P., Aspers, Pa. 

Harris, Edwin, Aspers, Pa. 

Hoffman, W. C., Biglerville, Pa. 

Hoffman, E. N., Biglerville, Pa. 

Hoffman, Clarence, Biglerville, Pa. ■ 

Hoffman, George, ,. Arendtsville, Pa. 

Hoffman, Willis, Biglerville, Pa. 

Harshman, U. W., Waynesboro, Pa. 

Hoke, David, Hanover, Pa. 

Huber, Charles H., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Hartman, Geo. R., Biglerville, Pa. 

Hull, D. W., Waymart, Pa. 

Heiges, Aaron M., Biglerville, Pa. 

Heckenluber, G. Orie, Biglerville, Pa. 

Heckenluber, G. T., Biglerville, Pa. 

Hummel, P. T., Harrisburg, Pa. 

Huber, Henry S., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Hazard, Willis Hatfield, West Chester, Pa. 

Jacobs, Samuel, Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Keller, H. AL, Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Klinefelter, U. S., Biglerville, Pa. 

Kane, J. A., Biglerville, Pa. 

Kane, J. Lewis, Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 6, Pa. 

Knouse, J. A., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Knouse, David, Arendtsville, Pa. 



8 



BUY YOUR ARSENATE of LEAD 
IN POWDERED FORM 

And save freight on the 40-60% of water all insecticide pastes contain 



Electro Arsenate of Lead 

(IN POWDERED FORM) 

is the only successful dry Arsenate of Lead, because it is the only one in amor- 
phous (not flaky, granular, or crystalline) form. This is made possible through 
our Electro Process which assures, also, at least 33 percent, arsenic oxide, mak- 
ing Electro the strongest Arsenate of Lead made, and consequently, the most 
effective and economical. As it contains less than ^ of 1 per cent, soluble 
arsenic oxide, it is harmless to even peach foliage. 

Because of its finely divided form Electro goes into suspension at once 
and remains so a long while. This assures an even distribution and enables 
the Arsenate of Lead to get into the plant tissues w^here it will be death to in- 
sects months after application. It won't wash off. 

Analysis of Electro Arsenate of Lead made by the New Jersey and Con- 
necticut Agricultural Experiment Stations prove our claims. Send to the sta- 
tions or us for these reports and satisfy yourself. 

We supply Electro in paste form if you prefer. It is packed with the least 
quantity of water (40 per cent.) because Electro paste goes into suspension 
readily even after drying. 

Electro Lime-Sulphur Solution 

(CONCENTRATED) 

is guaranteed to average not less than 32 per cent. Baume and to contain the 
maximum percentage of poly-sulphides of calcium. This gives an excess of 
soluble sulphur, the active insecticide. Electro Lime-Sulphur is an abso- 
lutely clear liquid, and conforms to all State and Federal laws. It is certain 
death to San Jose Scale, and all scale and sucking insects. Washing the bark 
w^ith it gives a smooth, healthy growth. 

Electro Lime-Sulphur Solution is packed in 50-gal. bbls. ; 30-gal. Yz 
bbls. ; 5-gal. and 1-gal. cans. 

Visit our booth at the convention and investigate Electro products thor- 
oughly. The material exhibited is the material uoe ship. 

The Vreeland Chemical Co. 

"Dept. C," 50 Church St., New York City 



9 



Koser, Rev. D. T., Arendtsvillc, Pa. 

Koser, G. W., Biglerville, Pa. 

Kkpper, C. H., Areiultsville, Pa. 

Longsdorf, C. L., Biglerville, Pa. 

Lawver, Rufiis W., Biglerville, Pa. 

Lawyer, J. Edw., Biglerville, Pa. 

Longsdorf, Dr. H. H., Dickinson, Pa. 

Lower, Reuben, Biglerville, Pa. 

Lady, Hiram C, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Lupp, Reuben, Biglerville, Pa. 

Lau, L. B., East Berlin, R. F. D. No. 3, Pa. 

Large, Mrs. E. S., Orrtanna, Pa. 

Large, Miss Katherine, Orrtanna, Pa. 

Michener, Chas., Bendersville, Pa. 

Michener, Mrs. Chas., Bendersville, Pa. 

Myers, George P., Biglerville, Pa. 

Mcllhenny, Wm. B., Gettysburg, Pa. 

McKay, Geo. H., Philadelphia, Pa. 

Mayer, Dr. L H. Willow Street, Pa. 

Morrison, Mrs. W. S., Aspers, Pa. 

Miller, John H., Aspers, Pa. 

Minnich, D. N., Chambersburg, Pa. 

Miller, N. G., Marion, Pa. 

Miller, C. C., Marion, Pa. 

Minter, Thomas L., Biglerville, Pa. 

Musselman, C. H., Biglerville, Pa. 

Minter, D. G., Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Myers, Levi M., Siddonsburg, Pa. 

McCauslin, Abram W., Biglerville, Pa. 

McCauslin, George W., Biglerville, Pa. 

Moyer, Mrs. H. P., Cape May, N. J. 

Mickley, J. W., Fairfield, R. F. D., Pa. 

Mickley, 1. D., Cashtown, Pa. 

Morgan, Miss F. K., Orrtanna, Pa. 

Musser, Will. M., Lampeter, Pa. 

Myers, Emory J., York Springs, Pa. 

Newcomer, Aaron, Smithsburg, Md. 

Newcomer, J. M., Waynesboro, Pa. 

Osborne, C. L., Biglerville, Pa. 

Osborne, Allen, Biglerville, Pa. 

Oyler, Geo., Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5. Pa. 

Oyler, George C, Gett.vsburg, R. F. D. No. 5. Pa. 

Ogden, David, Aspers, Pa. 

Orner, P. S., Arendtsville. Pa. 

Prickett, Josiah W., Biglerville. Pa. 

Prickett, ^Irs. E. M. G., Biglerville, Pa. 

Peters, Earl, Mt. Holly Springs, Pa. 

Peters, Z. J., Guernsey. Pa. 



lO 



"One for AU," No. 1 

Made of Wool Grease, Arsenate of Lead, Lime and Sulphur, 

is both a contact and poison spray ; both an insecticide and fungicide ; is 
positively the only thing needed for any pest or fungus diseases that can be 
controlled by spraying. 

Port Treverton. Pa,, Sept. 26, 1910. 

Manhattan Oil Company, 

51 Front St , New York City. 

Gentlemen :— I used your "ONE FOR ALL" last spring. As soon as possible in 
October I will use it again. 

I was able to sell peaches and plums from three year old trees. From 900 trees I 
gathered two bushels to a quart of very fine peaches, I did not see any marks of cur- 
culio, nor scale, these results could not have been obtained on three year trees without 
spraying as I did. The grease seemed to protect the trees from frost and insects and curl 
leaf. 

We cannot expect much on 3 year set out trees. I used ''ONE FOR ALL" also on 
Japan Plums, and got such a crop that I propped up, and sold such sorts as Red June 
Abundance, Burbank and Yellow Japans at ten cents a quart. Other people right along- 
side of me had no plums at all. I had no curculio, and used no other spraying than 
with your -'ONE FOR .\LL" on these trees. 

I "found out another point which I used profitably, we made bands of muslin four to 
six inches wide, and bound them around covered with "ONE FOR ."^LL" on sweet and 
sour cherries, Japan Plums and apple trees, and had no aphis upon these trees, while Pm 
not sure that it kept back the curculio. I think curculio found sticky walking. 

I have been terribly pestered with black aphis on cherry trees and on Wickson 
(Japan Plums) but this bank of "ONE FOR ALL" kept them off. spring and summer. 

It is just as effective on currant bushes for worms and on rose bushes for lice and 
bugs. I used it on cucumbers and melon vines with clean resnlts, I think well of it, 
gentlemen. Yours trulv, 

F. L. HANCOCK. 

P. S.— Perhaps you or someone might ask "how many trees, and stuff has this man 
got? ' Well, I have 3038 trees out and truck some, and grow small trees for nursery 
budding. I did not use "ONE FOR .'\LL" upon all my trees, having used some oil, 
home-made lime and sulphur and some bought lime and sulphur, but when one con- 
siders that yours is ONCE FOR ALL, with time saved and less cost, why it pays to use 
"ONE FOR ALL." for when I used the other thing I had to spray afterwards with 
arsenate of lead and risk burning of my foliage, besides the time lost. 

Yours trulv. 

F. L. HANCOCK. 

Arlington, N. Y., Sept. ist, 1910. 

Manhattan Oil Company, 

51 Front St., New York City. 

Dear Sirs:— Please excuse me for not answering your inquiry before, as I was wait- 
ing for the plum season to be over. 

I think the name "ONE FOR ALL," is not right, it should be "BEST OF ALL." 
The Japan plum trees used on were more than thatched with scale. I gave one thorough 
sprayiug just before the blossoms opened, and failed to find more than one or two plums 
with any on them. The trees are doing well this summer. The apple trees are fine, the 
bark looks bottle green, and no scale. 

Wishing you success, 

Yours truly, 

W. H. BROWER. 
PRICES F. O. B. NEW YORK 

0/ie for All, No. i. 

Barrels, 425 lbs 05c. a lb. 

Bbls., 200 lbs 05>< " 

100 lbs 06 

50 lbs 06K *' 

25 lbs 08 

MANHATTAN OIL CO. 

51 Front Street :: NEW YORK 



1 1 

Peters, W. R., Aspers, Pa. 

Peters, Geo. M., Aspers, Pa. 

Peters, Curtis, Biglerville, Pa. 

Peters, John N., Bendersville, Pa. 

Pitzer, Harry C, Aspers, Pa. 

Pitzer, Ira D., Biglerville, Pa. 

Patterson, Jas. A., Stewartstown, Pa. 

Pratt, B. G., New York City. 

Pittentorff, C. S., York Springs, Pa. 

Raffensperger, Chas. E.,, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Raffensperger, Roy, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Rice, E. E., Aspers, Pa. 

Rice, C. E., Biglerville, Pa. 

Rice, Waybright, Biglerville, Pa. 

Rice, C. S., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Rice, Luther S., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Rice, Oscar C, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Routzahn, George R., Bendersville, Pa. 

Rinehart, E. S., Mercersburg, Pa. 

Rinehart, J. J., , Smithsburg, Md. 

Roberts, Arthur, Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Rittenhouse, Dr. J. S., Lorane, Pa. 

Repp, Albert T., Glassboro, N. J. 

Riddlemoser, H. E., McKnightstown, Pa. 

Roth, John, Biglerville, Pa. 

Rice, Edwin A., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Stover, Dr. J. G., Bendersville, Pa. 

Stover, Mrs. J. G., Bendersville, Pa. 

Slaybaugh, E. B., Aspers, Pa. 

Slaybaugh, Elmer, Aspers, Pa. 

Smith, G. Frank, Aspers, Pa. 

Smith, J. H., Biglerville, Pa. 

Shank, C. G., Biglerville, Pa. 

Shank, George H., Biglerville, Pa. 

Shank, C. B., Biglerville, Pa. 

Sheely, Daniel M., Tillie, Pa. 

Sheely, Allen, Bendersville,, Pa. 

Schlosser, Ira, Aspers, Pa. 

Shull, Jno. A., Tillie, Pa. 

Shull, Robt. H., - ..Tillie, Pa. 

Sandoe, H. P., Biglerville, Pa. 

Stoner, C. A., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Schuchman, G. W., Carlisle, Pa. 

Sterrett, D. Kerr, Oakville, Pa. 

Sharpe, James A., Shippensburg, R. F. D., Pa. 

Stable, Charles E. , Gettysburg, Pa. 

Spangler, George E., ... Gettysburg, Pa. 

Stewart, Prof. J. P., State College, Pa. 

Snyder, E. B., Jack's Mountain, Pa. 

Snyder, Jacob S., Idaville, R. F. D., Pa. 

Snyder, W. E., Bendersville, Pa. 



12 



The State of Pennsylvania Appropriates 

$30,000 ANNUALLY 

to teach the farmer how to use LIME-SULFUR, yet apples from trees 

sprayed with 

"SCALECIDE" 

for the past five years took all the first prizes at the State Horticultural 

Society meeting at Tunkhannock. 
THE REASON:-The longer trees are sprayed with "SCALECIDE," 

the more beautiful, healthful, and fruitful they become. 



"SCALECIDE" not good for peaches? 

Mr. Roy Lamer of Cobden, Illinois last year sold $12,361 worth of 
peaches from 2000 trees which have been sprayed for several years 

with "SCALECIDE." 



Do not fail to make a trial of our 

"SULFOCIDE" 

the cheapest and most effective substitute for Boadeaux Mixture. 

B. G. PRATT COMPANY 

MANUFACTURING CHEMISTS 
50 Church St., NEW YORK CITY 

EDWIN C. TYSON, Flora Dale Pa., State Agent for Pennsylvania 



13 



Stauffer, Chas. B., (iettysl)itrg, Pa. 

Spangler, A. R., Aspers, Pa. 

Sacjis, Edw., Bigierville, Pa. 

Shoemaker, J. AI., Mechanicsbiirg, Pa. 

Sharrah, Jacob, McKnightstown, Pa, 

Strasbangh, E. F., Orrtanna, Pa. 

Sheaffer, Henry C, Dillsburg, No. i, Pa. 

Sheely, A. D., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Tyson, Edwin C, , . Flora Dale, Pa. 

Tyson, Mrs. M. W., Flora Dale, Pa. 

Tyson, Chester J., Flora Dale, Pa. 

Tyson, Mrs. B. H., Aspers, Pa. 

Tyson, \Vm. C, . . Guernsey, Pa. 

Tyson, ]\Irs. AI. E., Guernsey, Pa. 

Tyson, A. R., Xorristown, Pa. 

Taylor, I. P Bigierville, Pa. 

Taylor, Hanson W., Bigierville, Pa. 

Taylor, Daniel R., . Bigierville, Pa. 

Taylor, Henry, Bigierville, Pa. 

Taylor, A. AI., Bigierville, Pa. 

Taylor, Jacob, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Taylor, Jerr}', Aspers, Pa. 

Trostle, Francis, York Springs, R. F. D. 

Thomas, Mrs. Dr., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Weidner, A. L, , Arendtsville, Pa. 

Weidner, Geo., Aspers, Pa. 

Wolfe, C. A., Aspers, Pa. 

^\'olfe, Harry, Aspers, Pa. 

Wolf, Dr. W. E. Arendtsville, Pa. 

Wolf, Charles York Springs, Pa. 

Weaver, Mrs. C. M., New Oxford, Pa. 

Weaver, David, . . Bigierville, Pa. 

Wilson, B. F., Bigierville, Pa. 

Weaner, Chas. C Bendersville, Pa. 

Weaner, W. C, Aspers, Pa. 

W^ert, R. S., Bigierville, Pa. 

Wertz, D. AI., • ; . . . Quincy, Pa. 

AA'ible, R. E., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Wickersham, Ruth A., Bendersville, Pa. 

Wickersham, Robt. A., Bendersville, Pa. 

Wagner, Harry, Carlisle, Pa. 

Woodbourne, D. Sterrett, Shippensburg, Pa. 

Woodbourne, John S., Newville, Pa. 

Wright, Ryland, Aspers, Pa. 

Weigle, H. M.. Harrisburg. Pa. 

Wisotzkey, J. AL, Gettysburg, Pa. 

Williams, J. h-, Gettysburg, Pa. 

Walter. J. C, Bigierville. Pa. 

Warren, Blain Bendersville, Pa. 



14 



Best Wishes for a 

HAPPY NEW YEAR 

AND A 

Big Crop of Apples 

TO ALL 

Adams County Fruit Growers 




Musselman Canning Co. 

Biglerville, Pa. 



15 



CONSTITUTION 

Preamble. 

Being interested in fruit growing and believing that, by organization, we 
may materially advance our common interests, we hereby adopt the following 
Constitution and By-Laws : 

Article I. — Name. 

This Association shall be known as The Fruit Growers' Association of 
Adams County. 

Article II. — Object. 

The object of this Association shall be to encourage the co-operation of 
the fruit growers of Adams County for the protection and advancement of 
their common interests. 

1st. By securing and disseminating such scientific and practical informa- 
tion as shall promote the general advancement of the fruit growing interests 
in this county, and shall tend to the improvement of the quality and quantity 
of our products. 

2d. By securing such legislation as may be advantageous, and prevent- 
ing that which may be detrimental. 

3d. By securing such improved facilities in transportation as shall tend 
to give us more expeditious and economical distribution. 

4th. By endeavoring to secure a better and more uniform system of 
packing and package. 

5th. By devising some system of marketing our products which will open 
up and develop the markets and give to the grower a fair and remunera- 
tive return. 

6th. And by endeavoring to obtain such improved systems of crop re- 
porting as shall furnish, through co-operation with other similar Associa- 
tions, accurate information concerning production ; thereby enabling the fruit 
grower to know the exact situation. 

Article III. — Membership. 

1st. Candidates for membership may be elected b}^ a majority vote of 
the members present, and upon the payment of $1.00 into the treasur}- shall 
be entitled to membership until the next Annual Meeting. 

2d. Any member ma}^ renew his membership by the payment of annual 
dues, but upon failure to pay dues within three months after Annual Meet- 
ing, shall require re-election. 

3d. No member shall receive the benefit of commissions or of co-oper- 
ative buying by the Association, to an amount greater than $1.00 for the term 
of one year after election to membership. 

Article IV. — Dues. 

The annual dues of this Association shall be One Dollar ($1.00) pay- 
able to the treasurer at the meeting immediately preceding the annual meet- 
ing, for which the treasurer shall issue a receipt, this receipt to constitute 
a certificate of membership for the succeeding 3-ear. 

Article V.—Ofiicers. 

Its officers shall consist of a President, a First. Second. Third. Fourth, 
and Fifth Vice President, a Recording Secretar3% a Corresponding Secre- 
tary, and a Treasurer, all of whom shall be elected by ballot at each An- 
nual Meeting, to serve for the term of one year or until their successors 
shall be chosen. These nine (9) elective oAicers shall constitute an Execu- 
tive Committee. 



i6 



VISIT OUR EXHIBIT OF 

EASTERN GROWN APPLES 

UNTIL FEBRUARY 1st, 1911 



We have on exhibit during January at the Reading Terminal Market, 
Philadelphia, car loads of Eastern grown apples — Winesap, Ben Davis, York 
Imperial, Stayman's Winesap, Albemarle Pippin and others, to show what 
can be grown in the East. Geo. H. McKay, mgr. of exhibit. 

We also have a carload of fruit and ornamental trees, showing we can 
grow trees. 

WE HAVE AT OUR NURSERIES : 

100,000 GRAPE VINES— Concord and Moore's Early 

200,000 PEACH TREES— 100 Varieties 

200,000 APPLE TREES— 100 Varieties, I and 2 years 

50,000 PEAR TREES— 1, 2 and 3 years 

50,000 CHERRY TREES— 1 and 2 years 

20,000 PLUM TREES— 1 and 2 years 
500,000 CALIFORNIA PRIVET-all grades 
10,000,000 STRAWBERRY PLANTS 
100,000 NORWAY MAPLES 
100,000 NORWAY SPRUCE 

and a large acreage of other shade and ornamental trees, all of which are in 
fine condition and ready for immediate shipment. 

Can we talk business ? If you intend planting stock in the spring, won't 
you kindly fill out the attached coupon and mail same to us to-day ? You do 
not place yourself under any obligations whatever by doing this, but I should 
be glad to have the opportunity of giving you our prices. 

Ne-zv catalogue on ko-iv to gro-iv frnit In the East FREE 



HARRISON'S 
NURSERIES 

BERLIN, MD. 



HARRISON'S NURSERIES, Berlin, Md. 

Name 

Town . County 

State 

I am interested in the following for spring planting ; 



17 



Akticijv VI. — Quoriiin. 

Five (S) members shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of 
business. 

Article VII. — Amendments. 

The Constitution and By-Laws of this Association may be amended at 
any regular meeting by a two-thirds vote of the members present, a notice of 
the proposed amendment having been presented in writing at a previous 
regular meeting. 

Article Y ill.— Fruit Districts. 

For the purpose of distributing the work of the Association and ex- 
tending its scope, the County of Adams shall be divided into the follow- 
ing seven (7) districts: District One, or North District, to consist of 
Menallen Township; District Two, or West District, to consist of Franklin 
Township ; District Three, or Southwestern District, to consist of Highland, 
Liberty and Hamiltonban Townships ; District Four, or South District, to 
consist of Cumberland, Freedom and Mt. Joy Townships, and that portion 
of Straban Township lying south of the Western Maryland Railroad ; Dis- 
trict Five, or Eastern District, to consist of German}', Union, Conowaga, 
]Mt. Pleasant, Oxford, Reading, Berwick and Hamilton Townships ; Dis- 
trict Six, or Northeastern District, to consist of Latimore, Huntingdon and 
Tyrone Townships ; District Seven, or Central District, to consist of Butler 
Township and that portion of Straban Township lying north of the West- 
ern Maryland Railroad. 

Article IX. — Committees. 

The following tive (5) committees shall be appointed annually by the 
newly-elected Executive Committee and announced at the January meeting, 
as follows : A committee on programs, a committee on membership, a 
committee on statistics, a committee on exhibits and a committee on crop 
reports ; each committee shall be composed of one or two members from 
each of the seven (7) districts of Adams County, as designated in Art. 8, 
and one or two from each of the Counties of York, Cumberland and Frank- 
lin. 

BY-LAWS 

Article I. — Duties of President. 

The President shall preside at all meetings of the Association and have 
a general supervision of its affairs. 

Article II. — Duties of Vice Presidents. 

The highest designated Vice President present at any meeting shall 
preside in the absence of the President ; all of the five vice presidents shall 
serve on the Executive Committee in conjunction with the other elective 
officers ; and, in addition, each vice president shall have special duties as 
follows : 

The First Vice President shall be chairman of the program committee, 
and be responsible for the preparation of a program for each regular meet- 
ing, same to be announced at the preceding meeting. 

The Second Vice President shall be chairman of the membership com- 
mittee, and shall use every effort, personally and through members of his 
committee, to extend the membership and secure renewals. 

The Third Vice President shall be chairman of the committee on sta- 
tistics, and shall be responsible for the preparation of statistics sh.nving 
number of orchards in Adams County, and, as far as possible, in York\ 
Cumberland and Franklin Counties, with quantity, age, kind and variety of 
trees planted therein, for the use of the Association, adding thereto as new 
orchards are planted or old ones extended. 



i8 




Plant, cultivate, spray and 
dig your potatoes 



wi 



th 




IRONAGE 

Machines 
IRON ACE PLANTERS 

Plants 100 9c perfect, no misses, no 
doubles, even spacing, perfect plac- 
ing. No injury to seed — no pick- 
ers are used. Fertilizer does not 
touch seed. 

IRONAQE RIDING CULTI- 

VATORS are adjustable for any 
width rows and to suit all condi- 
tions of crop and soil. Can culti- 
vate in rows 28 inches wide. 

IRON AGE SPRAYERS 

Protect against bugs and blight. 
Furnished with Single or Double 
Acting Pumps, Wood Wheels or 
Steel. 55 gal. Steel Tanks or 100 
gal. W^ood Tanks. Thills or Com- 
bination. 

IRON AGE DIGGERS 

Harvest all your crop without 
waste. Light draft and convenient. 



Ask fot 1910 complete IRON AGE 
catalog of potato machinery' garden tools, 
cultivators, horse hoes, etc. 

Manufactured by 

BATEMAN MEG. CO. 

BOX 54 

GRENLOCH, N. J. 



19 

The Fourth Vice President shall ])C chairman of the committee on ex- 
hibits, and have entire charge of securing fruit for cxhiljits and displaying 
same as directed by the Association. 

The Fifth Vice President shall 1)c cliairnian of the committee on crop 
reports, and have entire charge'i of collecting and compiling same for use 
of the Association. 

Article III. — Duties of Rccordiim Secretary. 

The Recording Secretary shall write the minutes of the meetings of the 
Association and have charge of its Records and Reports. 

Article IV. — Duties of Corresponding Secretary. 

The Corresponding -Secretary shall conduct the correspondence of the 
Association and shall receive for so doing his necessary expenses for sta- 
tionery, postage, etc. He shall also act as Recording Secretary in the ab- 
sence of that officer. 

Article V. — Duties of Treasurer. 

The Treasurer shall receive and keep an accurate account of all moneys 
belonging to the Association, paying out same on an order of the Association, 
signed by the President. He shall make a report of all receipts and disburse- 
ments at the annual meeting or at any time at the request of the Associa- 
tion. He shall mail a notice of dues to all members one week prior to the 
November meeting, at which time all dues are payable, and shall issue cer- 
tificates of membership in exchange for all clues received. He shall also keep 
a roll of members who have complied with Article IV of the Constitution 
and embody same in his annual report. 

Article VI. — Duties of the Bxeeuti-ee Connnittee. 

The Executive Committee shall have general supervision of the affairs 
of the Association, auditing all bills and accounts and carrying out the pur- 
poses of the Association. 

Article VII. — Meetings. 

There shall be a regular meeting of the Association on the second Satur- 
day of each month at 7 : 30 p. i\i., unless otherwise ordered. The meeting held 
in December to be regarded as the Annual Meeting. Special meetings may 
be convened b}' the Executive Committee at such time as they may appoint. 

Article VIII. — Initiation of Officers. 

All new officers shall assume the duties of office at the opening of the 
meeting immediateh' followino; the one at which they were elected, except 
that the newly-elected Executive Committee shall prepare and announce, at 
the January meeting, the membership roll of the five (5) committees speci- 
fied in Art. 9. and the chairman of program committee shall prepare a pro- 
gram for the February meeting and announce same at the January meeting. 

Article IX. — Order of Business. 

1st. Readino- of minutes of orevious meeting. 

2d. Nominations and elections. 

3d. Reports of committees. 

4th. Deferred business. 

5th. Communications. 

6th. New business. 

7th. Discussion of questions. 



20 

S C A L I M E 



SCALIME IS A CONCENTRATED 
SOLUTION OF LIME 6t SULPHUR 

"Equal to the Best, and Better Than the Rest" 



"TABLE A" 

From Bulletin of November, 1909, Penna. Dept. of Agriculture, Dr. H. A. Surface, 

Economic Zoologist. 



SOLUTION OF BRAND 


Dilution us- 
ually recom- 
mended — di- 
luted accord- 
ingly. 


Pounds of Sulphur in 
Solution per 50 gal- 
lons spray. 


Specific grav- 
ity of diluted 
solution at 15 
deg. C. 


Dilution nec - 
essary to equal 
the strength 
of the 17-22- 
50 formula. 




1-11 


7 2 lbs. 


1.020 


About 1 to 6 




1-11 


9.5 lbs. 


1.025 


About 1 to 7 




1-11 


10.5 lbs. 


1 026 


About 1 to 8 




1-11 


12.5 lbs. 


1.030 


About 1 to 10 




1 11 


5 lbs. 


1.016 


About 1 to 4 




1-11 


10 lbs. 


1 026 


About 1 to 8 




1-11 


9.5 lbs. 


1.025 


About 1 to 7 




1-11 


30 per cent. sol. sulph. 


1.041 




Home boiled 17-22-50 I boiled 2 hours) closed 




16 to 17 lbs. 


1.042 






1-11 




1.004 




Neverscale (powder 1 lb. to 1 gal.) 


6.7 lbs. 


1.019 










1.041 






1-11 

]-9 

1-10 




1.020 
1.0 30 

1.028 


About 1 to 6 
About 1 to 10 
About 1 to 9 















PROF. JOHN P. STEWART, who is the author of Pennsylvania State Col- 
lege Bulletin No. 92, on concentrated Lime-Sulphur, says : "A concentrated Lime- 
Sulphur should be a clear solution of known, definite strength and contain nothing 
but Lime, Sulphur and Water." 

If the liquid is not clear it may have been doctored to increase the density, if 
the strength or density is not known it will be impossible to dilute it properly to 
obtain sprays of different densities, and if it contains anything except Lime, Sulphur 
and Water, the added substances are of no advantage and may be a detriment. 

GUARANTEE 

SCALIME. We guarantee that SCALIME contains nothing but Lime- 
Sulphur and Water, and that the strength or density is L30 s. g (33 degrees Baume) 
and if diluted in the proportion of 1 gallon SCALIME to 9 gallons water will kill 
all the SAN JOSE SCALE with which it comes in contact. 

Don't buy any Lime and Sulphur Solution unless the strength is guaranteed 

We handle the Hardie Sprayers and carry a full line of their goods, 
consisting of Power Sprayers, Barrel Sprayers, Hose, Nozzles, Bamboo 
Rods and other accessories and repairs at our Plant in Martins burg, W. 
Va. WRITE US FOR PRICES. 



Horticultural Chemical Co., ^p'SrSpmrpV"'"'''" 



22 



THE YORK IMPERIAL. 



The York Imperial apple is the standard commercial variety grown in 
the Adams County fruit belt. The trees, being thoroughly acclimated, are 
uniformly thrifty and vigorous wherever proper cultural methods are followed. 

The excellent quality of the York Imperial apple and its attractive ap- 
pearance, as indicated by the accompanying illustration, have been large fac- 
tors in building up the excellent reputation of the apples from this section. 

Historical. 

The following excellent historical account of the York Imperial is given 
by Taylor: "The variety bearing this name originated early in the last cen- 
tury on a farm adjoining the then borough of York, Pa. The attention of 
the owner, Mr. Johnson, was attracted by the presence of schoolboys who 
visited it in early spring to get the apples that had passed the winter on the 
ground, covered by leaves. On securing some of the fruit he found it in fine 
condition, and when the next crop was ripe took specimens to Mr. Jonathan 
Jessop, a local nurseryman, who began the propagation of the variety before 
1830, under the name 'Johnson's Fine Winter.' Under this name it was 
known until after the middle of the century, when, after an inspection of 
specimens the late Charles Downing pronounced it the 'Imperial of Keepers' 
and suggested that it be named 'York Imperial.' Mr. Jessop did not find 
ready sale for trees of the variety at first, and dumped the surplus trees from 
his nursery into a hollow beside the turnpike passing his place. They were 
picked up by farmers returning from market and taken home for planting on 
their farms in the lower end of York County. After its merits as a variety 
for market orchards was established, it became widely distributed throughout 
Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia, and soon became a leading market 
variety in those States." 

Appreciative. 

Dr. Funk, in his "Fruits for Pennsylvania," has the following to say in 
appreciation of the value of York Imperial as a commercial proposition : 

"There is no apple on the list that has gained more rapidity in popularity 
than the York Imperial. It has been steadily forging to the front until it 
is now one of the leading export apples, bringing prices almost equal to the 
famous Newton and Albemarle Pippin. Thousands of trees of this variety 
are being planted annually in Adams County. This section is becoming noted 
for producing this apple in the highest state of perfection, and buyers from 
distant parts come and purchase the fruit in the orchard. Fruit is above 
medium in size, skin greenish yellow, nearly, and sometimes entirely covered 
with bright red; flesh crisp, tender and juicy, aromatic; retains its flavor and 
keeps well with or without cold storage ; season all winter." 

Numerous instances are on record where this variety has produced an 
average annual net income of over $200.00 per acre, some special cases show- 
ing a net return of over $500.00 per acre in one season. 



PROCEEDINGS 



OF THE 

SIXTH ANNUAL CONVENTION 

OF THE 

FRUIT GROWERS ASSOCIATION 

OF 

ADAMS COUNTY, PA. 



The Sixth Annual Convention was called to order by the Presi- 
dent, Robt. M. Eldon, at 2:00 p. m., Wednesday, December 14, 
1910, in Fruit Growers' Hall, Bendersville, Pa. 

The convention was opened with prayer by the Rev. B. P. S. 
Busey. 



PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS. 



Robt. AI. EldOxV. 



The problem of the Adams County Fruit Growers' Association 
is to hold each year a better convention. We shall be pleased in- 
deed to do this during this week. There is no expectation of fur- 
nishing a program that shall be novel throughout or in large part, 
even if that were desirable, but new tailors for new clothes, may 
add interest to subjects which have been discussed more or less 
regularly since the growing of fruit was begun and discussions 
had. It will be, then, not so much the declarations of new methods 
as the perfection of old ones by addition of elimination. We are 
willing and anxious to hear the latest and best of everything from 
the planting of raw land to the receipt of returns for fruit mar- 
keted. 

Can planting be overdone, and especially will planting in the 
East be overdone is a question which is frequently heard. Some 
say that it is now too late to plant trees ; if they were now grown 
and ready to bear, all well and good, but by the time the new- 
planted ones are ready to bear in seven to eleven years the market 
will be overstocked. We certainh^ think that the year IQOO was 
a better year for planting than the year 1910. I^eing first on the 
field is always a great advantage, but that there will be a good mar- 
ket for the good crops of the 1910 planted trees wc also fulh- be- 



23 



24 



lieve. Not everybody is planting trees or expects to do so, and 
many of the trees planted so lately as 1900 are dead as they can 
be. Certainly many of those planted earlier are gone. It is the 
exception to see even in Adams conntv a thrifty kitchen orchard 
or farmer's orchard. 

One argnment and a good strong one why the eastern orchards 
are going to sncceed is that the best markets are within easy reach; 
are right at onr doors, in fact. Observe the eightieth meridian 
passing through Pittsburg and Charleston and see what our eastern 
home markets are. East of this are to be found two of the great- 
est cities in the world ; eight others, each with a population in ex- 
cess, of 250,000. Three of the eight have nearly 600,000 each. 
Of fifty American cities with 100,000 or more, almost the half are 
here. Of one hundred seventy-eight cities with less than 100,000 
and more than 25,000 nearly the half are here. AMiile the little - 
cities and the big boroughs are too many to name. These great 
cities, these big cities and the lesser cities, boroughs and towns are 
not only here and are ours to supply, but the census reports also 
show that they grow, and are growing generally faster than those 
of the AA'est and ]\Iiddle West. 

Let us plant more orchards and plan to keep them. A\^e are 
the best placed geographically. Our land is relatively cheap, and 
there are no charges for water, and as to water control, all we need 
do is to plant the slopes and upland. The matter of irrigating the 
orchard requires the skill of the expert, and already there is some- 
thing wrong ^^ith many of the western irrigated orchards. We 
are slower in production of crops but we will be here when the 
other fellow is out. 

And while we have the whip hand on the western grower in 
the matter of haulage and freights vet the railways wnth the "short 
haul" and "long haul" idea are keeping in the way of our having 
reasonable freight rates, making up in part what they lose in dis- 
tance by higher local rates. The express companies are their will- 
ing allies. cannot send small packages of fruit by express 
profitably. If I send a single basket to Harrisburg it is the mini- 
mum charge of 35 cents. If I send it by the Adams Company, 
it is twice the minimum or the usual selling price of the product. 
I could not ship a large quantity of peaches by express to popu- 
lous Rhode Island unless in a year of very high prices and make 
a profit. . Let us use our congressmen in getting after the express 
companies . by w^av of a parcels post. We possiblv could not de- 
liver fruit bv mail but a general oarcels post would work havoc 
with the present too high rate of the expressman. 

We need a proper storage place for our increasing apple crops. 
As it is we now or very soon must sell from the orchard at the buy- 
er's price, because the cold storage warehouse is either bought up in 
advance or is too far away. Can we not build a local plant and 
manage it locally? It would remove the necessity of selling at 
picking time. It would pay and would give to the grower a choice 
betw^een selling and storing which is necessary to give him a fair 
share. 



25 



As to the Adams county crops this year, it might be said, that 
though it was what we call the off years it was about equal to the 
best previous full year crop. Whether the young trees now be- 
ginning to bear will drop into the apparently established habit of 
the old ones, or whether we shall cease to have an off year, will be 
interesting to note. Perhaps wdien we regularly thin the apples, 
regular annual cropping will be the rule. 

Spraying is now generally practiced by the Adams county 
growers. To spray to kill the scale or to insure against its danger- 
ous occurrence is now accepted as good orchard practice. While, 
heretofore spraying has been directed against scale to keep the tree 
alive, it will hereafter be particularly dircted to the object of per- 
fecting the crop. The problem will be to keep the foliage in per- 
fect condition, to prevent scab, blight, rust and rot, to pro- 
tect the foliage and fruit from the attacks of vermin that chew. 
We are already able to get good arsenicals and let us hope that 
National legislation will shortly insure their quality. Let us hope 
that some formula of lime and sulphur will give to the orchardist 
a cheap and perfect summer spray. 

The difficulties in the marketing of the year's apple crop keep 
us alive to the need of package legislation. Let us urge National 
enactment and let us hold firmly to the old-fashioned idea of mak- 
ing a measure a full measure ; a bushel nam.ed, a bushel in fact. 
Doubtlesi the western grower will cling to the notion that a bushel 
box must be regulated by the size of western apples, and the soon 
to be exploded idea that boxed apples are only grown in the West. 
If no National law is enacted in the near future, the eastern states 
are certain to pass statutes regulating packages which will no doubt 
be difficult for the western grower to meet with the short boxes in 
vogue there. I hope that the Appalachian growers, as suggested 
by recent organizations in Virginia and New York will not attempt 
legislation until harmony prevails throughout the East. With the 
program filled by men from all sections of the East, we should 
know before the close of this convention something of eastern senti- 
ment. 

The Adams county growers welcome you to their sixth con- 
vention. 




Left Box Too Flat, Middle Just Right, Right Too High. 
(Courtesy of "Better Fruit.") 



26 



SECRETARY'S SYNOPSIS OF igio MINUTES. 



JosiAH W. Pricke:tt. 



The Committee of Arrangements have thought it would be 
of interest to this convention to have pass in review^ some of the 
more important work of this Association during the past year. 
This will include the deliberation of twelve regular meetings. At 
some of these meetings, however, a large portion of the time was 
taken up with routine business, which will be omitted in this paper. 

December Meeting (1909). 

At the December meeting 1909, the subject considered at length 
was "The Cultivated Orchard" vs. "The Uncultivated and Indiffer- 
ently Mulched Orchard." The testimony was pronounced in favor 
of thorough cultivation. Another fact emphasized, that large ap- 
ples are demanded by the markets. Such fruit can be produced 
by thorough work in cultivation, spraving, trimming and thinning. 

January Meeting. 

The January meeting was made profitable by going over in 
review the proceedings of our recent convention. 

February Meeting. 

February meeting. Our delegates to State Horticultural meet- 
ing came to us with an instructive report. Among other things, 
we were advised to feed our fruit trees all the plant food they can 
use at blossom time. We were, also, advised to make ourselves 
better acc|uainted with what is in the soil below plow depth. For 
those wishing to start asparagus, the Palmetto variet}- was recom- 
mended. Transplant the plants at one year old, using only strong 
plants. We were to be congratulated on our fruit exhibit, 
but were cautioned by our delegates not to use same fruit for more 
than one exhibit. At this meeting information was furnished 
showing the possible crops the railroad will be called upon to move 
in the near future. A transportation committee was appointed 
with instructions to wait upon the railroad management and bring- 
to their attention the necessity of liberal siding and car accommo- 
dations. 

March Meeting. 

The ]\Iarch meeting was held at Arendtsville. The Lafean 
xA.pple Packag^e and Grade Bill was discussed and explained by the 
corresponding secretary. The question was asked, in view of the 
fact that we are confronted with so many enemies to the peach, is 
it advisable to keep on planting, commercially? The meeting con- 
cluded that, with the present means at our command for fighting 
these enemies, we are justified in planting, and by the proper use 
of this fighting machinery, might expect profitable returns. Select 
high ground and tree free of Yellows, and plant not less than 16 
feet apart. 



27 



April Meeting. 

R. Eldon, as one of the delegates to the hearing on the 
Lafean Apple Package and Grade Bill, before the House Commit- 
tee on Agriculture at Washington, called attention to several reasons 
why those favorable to the bill failed to secure affirmative action by 
the committee. The most conspicuous being the presence on the 
bench, of a member from Oregon, who, because of the necessity 
of facing his constituents next fall for re-election, was naturally a 
vigorous advocate of Oregon's opposing position. Oregon's princi- 
pal objection to the bill is based on their desire to force the con- 
suming public to accept their box, which is practically a Winchester 
bushel, as being a legal heaped bushel of apples, which is, of course, 
an absurditv. 

May Meeting. 

Small fruits came up for discussion at this meeting. A mem- 
ber called attention to a seedling strawberry he is growing success- 
fully, it being the result of a cross poUenation between Gandy, 
Sharpless and Lawver. The varieties recommended for a succes- 
sion are as follows : First, the seedling Lawver ; second. Senator 
Dunlap, followed by Glen ]\Iary, Oswego and Xick-Ohmer. 

For blackberries, first. Early Harvest, followed by Blowers. 
Both are early bearers and the Blowers is a very large, sweet 
berry. In regard to raspberries, success has been had with Gregg 
and ]\Iammoth Cluster varieties. Set plants three feet apart, in 
rows five feet apart, cut oft* tips of new growth, thus encouraging 
stocky growth, ■ remove all old canes as soon as fruit is harvested, 
give thorough cultivation and thin canes in the fall 

Several members mentioned the susceptibility of currants and 
gooseberries to the attack of San Jose scale and the great difficulty 
of eradicating it. 

A discussion on plums brought out the fact that the reason 
that the Red June plum does not bear is on account of its imper- 
fect blossom, which can best be remedied by internlanting with the 
\\'ickson varietv. 

In considering the advantage in spraying for coddling moth 
while apples were in full bloom, results both here and in New York, 
where it has been practiced, indicate that there is nothing gained 
by this practice, very favorable reports come from the use of 
Lime-sulphur as a summer sprav when used in proper proportions, 
which is about 3 gallons Lime-sulphur to 100 gallons of water.- 
Though, where more than one application was made, some burning 
of the foliage was noticed. 

June Meeting. 

Plant diseases were discussed at the June meeting. One mem- 
ber referred to the small amount of fungus trouble apparent this 
spring even where no spraying has been done, probablv due to cold 
\\'eather. Another member has noticed quite a good deal of Frog- 
eye fungus on his trees, even where thev had been well sprayed with 
'rox. Attention was called to the fact that at a recent convention, 



28 



especially of nurserymen, there has been a tendency to minimize 
the danger from root gall, but it was the testimony of growers 
present that on examining trees in their orchards that seemed to 
be in a weak condition, as shown by foliage, in almost every in- 
stance such trees were found to be affected by crown gall, and, even 
if it does not actually kill the trees, it seems to have a weakening 
eff'ect, and it was concluded best not to deliberately plant trees so 
aft'ected. 

The necessity for selectino- bright, new. Crimson clover seed, 
for planting, was emphasized, one member stating that he would 
rather pay several dollars per bushel more for such seed than for 
that which had been carried over. 

July Meeting. 

Handling of the peach crop was under consideration at the 
July meeting; first, as to thinning, Geo. Oyler opening the subject 
by saying that he thinks it pays well to thin but says his trouble is, 
usually, not to get them thin enough. ]\Ir. flyers, of Bownians- 
dale, would measure with the eye about what a limb will stand and 
thin accordingly. Second, as to package, the meeting concluded 
that it was a good thing to put fine fruit in small packages, but the 
canning trade preferred half-bushel baskets. 

Third, as to picking, packing and grading, Mr. i\Iyers would 
make two or three pickings to a tree, and recommends leaving the 
fruit in picking baskets to be transferred to packing house. In 
grading, recommends usually two grades, never more than three. 

Fourth, as to marketing. In discussing this phase of the busi- 
ness it was thought well for the producer to keep as near consumer 
as possible. In many cases better net returns being realized by 
selling right out of the orchards to hucksters and consumers. 

October Meeting. 

The question as to what receptacle we shall use in picking apples 
received considerable attention. It was the impression that the ideal 
method was vet to be discovered. There were advocates present of 
both the basket and bag-hung-on-the-shoulder method, but it was 
concluded a good compromise might be had by picking in baskets 
the fruit obtainable from the s^round and step-ladders, and using 
the bag for high climbing. A careless operator will bruise the 
fruit by anv method. 

November Meeting. 

Growers prefer a three-leg^ step-ladder for picking all fruit that 
can be reached in that wav, and a straight ladder with pointed top 
for higher trees. The packing of the fruit by the growers, under 
supervision of the buyer, instead of by packing gangs organized by 
the buyer, was strongly urged bv several members, so that all 
crops mav be picked and packed directly into packages instead of 
placing on ground, or allowing to hang beyond the proper time, 
as is often necessary when waiting for packing gangs. All members 
who have not already done so. are urged to perfect themselves in 
this work, so as to take care of their fruit at the proper time with- 
out loss. 



29 




Packing Fine Adams County Applks. 
(Mammoth Black Twig.) 

LIME-SULPHUR PREPARATIONS FOR THE SUMMER 
SPRAYING OF ORCHARDS. 



W. ^l. Scott. United States Department of Agrieultiire. 



I. Dilute Lime-Sulphur Solution for Apple Diseases. 

Bordeaux mixture has been the standard fungicide for the con- 
trol of apple diseases since spra3dn^^ apple orchards came into 
vogue. It has made profitable apple growing possible, where it 
would otherwise have been a failure, and has been the means of 
untold wealth to the commercial apple grov/ers of the country. 
It has formed practically the sole remedy for apple scab, bitter 
rot and various apple leaf-diseases, and has been universally used 
on grapes, potatoes and other crops. In recent years, however, 
there has developed a very serious objection to the use of Bordeaux 
mixture as a fungicide on apples owing to the injurious effect it 
produces on both fruit and foliage. The fruit of many varieties 
like the Ben Davis and Jonathan becomes russeted and often dwarf- 
ed and distorted from the toxic action of the copper in the Bor- 
deaux. This injury is produced mainlv by the applications made 
within three or four weeks after the blossom petals fall and is 
especially serious in a wet spring. Mid-summer or late spraying, 
such as is reciuired for bitter rot, rarely russets the fruit, the skin 
at that time having become tougher and more resistant. The skin * 
of the young fruit is injured by the copper and as the apple de- 



30 

velops, the injured portions enlarge, resulting in russet blotches 
and streaks. In wet seasons the russeting of the fruit is sometimes 
so serious as to reduce its market value twenty-five per cent., or in 
::ome cases even fifty per- cent. 

The pathologists and apple growers have, therefore, been 
driven to seek a less caustic fungicide and the result has been the 
development of various lime-sulphur preparations. During the past 
four years the Bureau of Plant Industry, and some of the Experi- 
ment Stations, have been conducting experiments with lime-sul- 
phur fungicides and the results have been such as to warrant the 
recommendation of dilute lime-sulphur solution as a substitute for 
Bordeaux mixture in a large part of the apple spraying operations. 

The Lime-Sulphur Sprays. 

For two or three decades a preparation known as the lime- 
sulphur wash has been used in the dormant season for the control of 
the San Jose scale and other scale insects. It has been known for 
years that the same spray applied to peach trees in the early spring 
two or three weeks before they bloom would prevent peach leaf- 
curl and it is now a common practice to spray for scale and leaf- 
curl at the same time using the lime-sulphur wash. The lime-sul- 
phur solution, now rapidlv coming into use as a summer spray for 
apples, is only a modification of the old lime-sulphur wash. 

Home-made Lime-Sulphur Solution. — Concentrated lime-sul- 
phur solution to be diluted and used as a summer spray on ap- 
ples may be prepared as follows: Boil i6 pounds of sulphur and 
8 pounds of lime with lo gallons of water for about an hour, fin- 
ishing with 8 gallons of concentrated solution. Then strain and 
dilute it with water to make 200 gallons of spray. This makes 4 
pounds of sulphur in each 50 gallons of spray, which, in our ex- 
periments, has proved to be about the right strength for summer 
spraying of apples. It may be made in larger quantities by using 
100 pounds of sulphur and 50 pounds of lime and boiling them to- 
gether with enough water to finish with 50 gallons of concentrated 
solution. The boiling may be done in a kettle over a fire, or in a 
barrel or other tank with steam. In diluting for summer spray- 
ing 2 gallons of this solution should be used in 50 gallons of water. 
Used at this strength in our experiments it controlled apple scab, 
leaf-spot, and cedar rust, fuUv as well as Bordeaux mixture, with- 
out seriously injuring the fruit or foliage.* 

Commercial Lime-Sulphur Solution. — A number of manu- 
facturers are now placing on the market concentrated lime-sulphur 
solutions to be used as a fungicide and an insectitude. Most of 
these preparations test 32° to 33° on the Baume hydrometer and 
contain in solution about 2^/2 to 234 pounds of sulphur to each gal- 
lon. They are practically the same as the home-made solution, 



"-^For further information in regard to the preparation of concentrated 
lime-sulphur solution see hulletin No. 99, Pennsylvania Agricultural Experi- 
ment Station by Prof. John P. Stuart. 



31 



but are a little more concentrated and therefore require more dilu- 
tion. A strength of gallons of the solution to 50 gallons of 
water gives about 4 pounds of sulphur in each 50 gallons of spray, 
and produces the same results as the home-made solution diluted 
to contain the same amount of sulphur. 

We have experimented with several different brands of these 
commercial products and have found very little dift'erence in them. 
All that were tested gave fairly uniform results and compared 
favorably with the home-made solution. It appears, therefore, 
that, except in the matter of cost, it makes very little difference 
whether the preparation is purchased from the factory or made at 
home. The home-made product is less expensive but more trouble- 
some. 

Results of Experiments. 

Experiments comparing the lime-sulphur preparations with Bor- 
deaux mixture in the treatment of apple diseases have been conducted 
by the Bureau of Plant Industry in A'irginia, ^lichigan, Nebraska, 
AIissouri> and Arkansas. Excepting bitter rot and blotch, all dis- 
eases of the fruit and foliage in all the experiments were as thor- 
oughl}- controlled bv the lime-sulphur solution as by the Bordeaux 
mixture. The lime-sulphur produced very little or no russeting of 
the fruit and no serious foliage injury while the Bordeaux injured 
both fruit and foliage of Ben Davis, lonathan, Yellow Newton, and 
some other varieties. The lime-sulphur sprayed fruit was invari- 
ably superior in appearance to that sprayed with Bordeaux. 

Experiments for the control of apple scab on Winesap were 
conducted in A^iro-inia during 1909 with the following results: On 
the plots sprayed with lime-sulphur solution less than one per cent, 
of the fruit was affected with scab ; on that sprayed with Bordeaux 
mixture about two per cent, of the fruit was affected ; and on the 
check or unsprayed plot thirty per cent, of the fruit w^as scabby. 

During the same year similar experiments were conducted in 
Michigan with like results. The scab was held down to four per 
cent, of the crop by the lime-sulphur solution and to three and one- 
half per cent by Bordeaux mixture, while eighty per cent, of the 
unspraved fruit of the same varietv ( VVagener) w^as affected. 

Results of experiments conducted in Arkansas by the Depart- 
me;it of Agriculture were not favorable to the lime-sulphur solu- 
tion in the control of bitter rot and apple blotch. These two dis- 
eases were checked by the spray but not thoroughly controlled. 
There is, therefore, some doubt as to the efficiency of the lime- 
sulphur solution as a remedy for bitter rot and blotch. 

In both the Virginia and the ^lichigan experiments the com- 
mercial lime-sulphur solution at a strength of 2 to 50 slightly 
scorched the leaves particularly on the terminal shoots, but this did 
not prove to be serious and' at the end of the season the foliage 
was in good condition, the apple leaf-spot having been controlled 
and the cedar rust held in check. It was found also that arsenate 
of lead, used with the lime-sulphur solution did not result in injury 
to fruit or foliage and that it controlled codling moth as thoroughly 



32 



as when combined with Bordeaux mixture. A fuH account of 
these experiments was pubhshed in Circular Xo. 54 of the Bureau 
of Plant Industry. 

Experiments of 1910. 

During the past season experiments were conducted at Waynes- 
boro, Va., on AA'inesap, York Imperial and Ben Davis. From 75 
to 200 trees of such variety were sprayed and a check of about ten 
trees of each varietv was left unsprayed. Each variety was divid- 
ed into 4 plots and treated as follows : 

Plot I. Commercial lime-sulphur solution, i^/ to 50, with 2 
lbs. arsenate of lead. 

Plot 2. Home-made lime-sulnhur solution, 2 lbs. of lime and 
4 lbs. sulphur to so gals, water, with 2 lbs. arsenate of lead. 

Plot 3. Bordeaux mixture, 3 lbs. bluestone and 4 lbs. lime to 
50 gals, water, with 2 lbs. arsenate of lead. 

Plot 4. Check, not sprayed. 

The Winesaps were sprayed, fi) after the cluster buds open- 
ed, just before thev bloomed fApril 5) ; (2) as soon as the petals 
fell (April 19) ; (3) three to four weeks later Qlav 17) : and (4) 
nine weeks after the petals fell (June 26). The Ben Davis and 
York Imperial received only three treatments, the first application 
given the \\'inesaps having been omitted from these varieties, for 
the reason that in A'irginia they do not suffer seriously from attacks 
of scab. 

Effect on the Foliage. — The weather was unsually cold and 
wet during April and ]\Iay and the conditions were favorable for 
spray injury. Tov\-ard the end of Alay, soon after the second spray- 
ing of the Ben Davis and Yorks, the leaves of these A-arieties showed 
considerable spray injury on all the plots. On the lime-sulphur 
plots the leaves of the voung shoots were somewhat scorched around 
the margins, and as a consequence, some of them were crooked or 
curled. A few dead spots appeared on some of the leaves and at 
that time it looked as though the injury might prove serious. It 
did not progress anv further, however, even after the next appli- 
cation, and the trees soon grew out of it. Bv mid-summer nearly 
all evidence of injury had disappeared and during the remainder 
of the season the foliage was in excellent condition. In respect to 
injury there was practicallv no difference between the home-made 
and the commercial lime-sulphur. 

Bordeaux mixture caused more injury than either of the lime- 
sulphur perparations and this injury increased as the season ad- 
vanced. The leaves were more or less spotted with circular, brown 
areas and a considerable percentage of them turned yellow and 
dropped off. The trees sprayed with the lime-sulphur solutions 
went through the season with much better foliage than those spray- 
ed with Bordeaux mixture, demonstrating the superiority of the 
former fungicide over the latter in this respect. 



33 



The apple leaf-spot disease was controlled equally well by 
both fungicides and about the same was true of cedar rust. The 
lime-sulphur solution, however, showed some superiority over Bor- 
deaux in controlling cedar rust. This disease seems to yield more 
readily to sulphur sprays than to copper sprays. 

Effect on the Fruit. — There was practically no difference be- 
tween the lime-sulphur solution and Bordeaux mixture in the con> 
trol of the diseases that occurred on the fruit. Apple scab, fruit 
spot and sooty blotch were controlled ecjually well by both fungi- 
cides. In the case of the Ben Davis, particularly however, there 
was a decided difference in the appearance of the fruit sprayed 
with the two kinds of fungicides. The fruit sprayed with Bor- 
deaux was russeted considerably, although very little of it was 
dwarfed or distorted as often occurs with Bordeaux sprayed fruit. 
The Winesaps were also russeted but not so much as the Ben Davis, 
while the York Imperial showed onlv a slight roughening of the 
skin. The latter variety is almost immune to Bordeaux russet. 

The fruit of all varieties sprayed with the lime-sulphur solu- 
tion was almost free from spra}^ russet. The natural russet at the 
stem end was enlarged slightly and on some specimens this ran 
over on to the side of the apple, but as a rule, the fruit was smooth, 
clean, and highlv colored. The high color and general appearance 
of this fruit would place it in a grade higher than that sprayed with 
Bordeaux which would mean 25 cents to 50 cents a barrel in price. 

The Control of Apple Scab.^ — In order to determine the com- 
parative efficiency of the sulphur and copper sprays in the control 
of apple scab, the fruit from four AA'inesap trees in each plot and 
six check trees were sorted and the results, in terms of percentage 
of fruit affected with scab, are given in the following table : 

Table i. — Lime-sulphur solution vs. Bordeaux for apple scab. 



No. of 1 
Plot. 1 


Spray oNhxtiire Used. 


1 Per cent, of 
1 scabby fruit 


I. 1 


Commercial lime-sulphur solution to 50) plus 2 


1 


1 


lbs. arsenate of lead. 


1 2.2 


2. 1 


Home-boiled lime-sulphur solution (2-4-50) plus 2 


1 


1 


lbs. arsenate of lead. 


I • 6.1 


3. i 


Bordeaux mixture (3-4-50) plus 2 lbs. arsenate of 




I 


lead. 


I 6.2 


4. i 


Check, not sprayed. 


! 99-8 



It will be seen from this table that the home-made lime-sul- 
phur solution and the Bordeaux mixture both held the scab down 
to about 6 per cent, of the crop, while practically all of the un- 
sprayed frtiit was scabby. The plot sprayed with the commercial 
solution had the lowest percentage of scabby fruit (2.2 per cent.), 
but this was probably due to a difference in the plots and not in 
the fungicides. Plot i contained medium sized trees easily spray- 
ed, while the trees in plots 2 and 3 were large and rather dif- 
ficult to sprav with the outfit used. 

It would seem from these results and those obtained in previ- 
ous experiments that the efficiency of the lime-sulphur solution as 
a remedy for apple scab could no longer be cpiestioned. 



34 

Adoption of Lime-Sulphur in Virginia. 

As a result of the experiments conducted in Mrginia during 
1909, by the Bureau of Plant Industry, practically all of the Vir- 
ginia apple orchards were sprayed with the lime-sulphur solution 
during the past season. A\'e personally examined some of these 
orchards and have had reports from many of them. In every case, 
so far as we have been able to ascertain, the results were satisfac- 
tory both as to the control of diseases and as to the effect of the 
spray on fruit and foliage. In the early part of the season there 
were a number of reports of injury to the young leaves, but in no 
case did^ this prove to be serious. In the Yellow Xewton orchards 
where bitter rot is a serious factor, the lime-sulphur solution was 
used in tlie early treatments for scab and leaf-spot and this was 
followed by applications of Bordeaux for bitter rot. This plan 
was entirely successful, the russeting of the fruit having been 
avoided and the bitter rot disease controlled. 

Conclusions and Recommendations. 

The evidence obtained from various experiments conducted 
by the U. S. Department of Agriculture, and several of the experi- 
ment stations, seems to warrant the following conclusions : 

Bordeaux mixture often russets the fruit and injure? the foli- 
age of many varieties of apples and its use in the early part of the 
season should therefore be avoided as much as possible. 

Lime-sulphur solution, diluted so as to contain four pounds 
of sulphur in each fifty gallons of spray, is a good substitute for 
Bordeaux mixture in the treatment of apple scab and some other 
diseases, and will not materially russet the fruit nor injure the foli- 
age. The concentrated solution mav be purchased from the factory 
and diluted at the rate of 1^2 gallons to 50 gallons of water, or it 
may be prepared at home. 

This fungicide will control apnle scab, fruit spot, leaf -spot 
and cedar rust fulh' as well as Bordeaux mixture, but has not 3^et 
proved to be as satisfactory for bitter rot. \Miere it is necessary 
to spray for this disease, the early lime-sulphur applications for 
scab may be followed at the proper time with Bordeaux for bit- 
ter rot, thus avoiding the russet and vet controlling the rot. There 
is also some doubt about the efficiency of lime-sulphur in con- 
trolling apple blotch and where this disease is bad Bordeaux should 
be used. 

Arsenate of lead may be safely and successfully used in com- 
bination with the dilute lime-sulphur solution for the control of the 
codling moth and other insects. 

The course of treatment best suited to this section may be out- 
lined as follows : 

Use the commercial lime-sulphur at a strength of 1V2 gallons 
to 50 gallons of water, or an equivalent strength of the home-made 
preparation, with the addition of 2 lbs. of arsenate of lead in each 
50 gallons of sprav. Spray the varieties subject to apple scab: (i) 
as soon as the buds have opened, just before blooming; (2) as soon 



35 



as the petals fall, beginning when thev are two-thirds off; (3) 
three to four weeks later; and (4) nine to ten weeks after the 
petals have been shed. The first application may be omitted from 
varieties like York Imperial which do not suffer seriously from 
scab. 

AMiere it is necessary to spray for bitter rot the first three 
applications outlined above should be followed bv two or three ap- 
plications of Bordeaux mixture at intervals of two weeks, begin- 
ning about Tune 25 to July i. 

II. Self-Boiled Lime-Sulphur Mixture for Peach Diseases. 

Owing to the susceptibilitv of peach foliage to injury by appli- 
cations of fungicides, the peach grower has been practically power- 
less to combat the diseases aft'ecting the fruit and foliage. The use 
of Bordeaux mixture has been frequently attempted and in some 
cases,, especially in dry seasons, the results have been satisfactory, 
but as a rule the injury produced by this and other copper fungi- 
cides is so great as to prohibit their use on the peach. 

The eft'orts of the United States Department of Agriculture, 
during the past few years, to develop and perfect a satisfactory 
fungicide for use on the peach during the growing season, have 
been crowned with unusual success. A\'e have found that a prepa- 
ration known as the self-boiled lime-sulphur mixture can be safely 
and successfully used on the peach for the control of brown-rot 
and scab or black spot. The mixture, when properly applied, con- 
trols these diseases almost completely and does not injure the fruit 
or foliage. 

The experiments have been conducted in Georgia, Virginia, 
A\'est \^irginia, Arkansas, ^Jissouri and Illinois, and in every case 
the treatment was successful. During the past year mau}^ fruit 
growers in Georgia, West A'irginia, and other sections, sprayed 
their orchards with the mixture, and so far no adverse reports of 
results have been received. So far as it has been tried the treat- 
ment appears to have been universally successful in controlling 
both peach scab and brown-rot. 

Arsenate of lead may be added to the mixture for the control 
of the curculio, which not only produces wormy fruit, but increases 
the brown-rot infections by puncturing the skin and opening the 
way for the fungus. This insect occurs in destructive numbers in 
nearly all eastern peach orchards and in most cases where spraying 
with the self-boiled lime-sulphur for scab and brown-rot is done, 
arsenate of lead should be added. 

Preparation of the Mixture. — To prepare self-boiled lime- 
sulphur, use 8 lbs. of fresh stone lime and 8 lbs. of sulphur to each 
50 gallons of water. In order to get good action from the lime 
the mixture should be prepared in rather large quantities, say 
enough for at least 200 gallons at a time, making the formula 32- 
32-200. Place the lime in a barrel or tub and pour on enough 
water to almost cover it, then add the sulphur. Stir thoroughly 
while the lime is slaking and add more water if necessarv to make 
a creamy paste. The slaking of the lime and the stirring will make 



36 



a good mechanical mixture of the sulphur and the lime, only a small 
percentage of the former going into solution. As soon as the lime 
is thoroughly slaked more water should be added to stop further 
chemical action, as there is some danger of dissolving enough sul- 
phur to injure peach foliage. The mixture is then ready to be 
strained and diluted for spraying. 

Outline of Treatment. — For the treatment of peach brown- 
rot and scab, in Pennsylvania and adjacent territory, the following 
is recommended : Spray the earlv A^arieties. like Carman. Hiley, 
and Champion, about a month after the petals fall, and a month or 
six weeks before the fruit ripens. Later varieties, as the Elberta, 
Smock. Salway, and Bilyeu. will usually require three applications 
for the best results : the first to be made a month after the petals 
fall, the second three to four weeks later, and the third a month 
to six weeks before the fruit ripens. 

For the curculio. arsenate of lead at the rate of two pounds to 
each fiftv gallons of self-boiled lime-sulphur should be used in the 
first application but not in the others. AMiere this insect is a seri- 
ous factor, an application of arsenate of lead, two pounds to fifty 
gallons of water with two or three pounds of lime, to be made a 
few days after the petals fall, is recommended, but is probably not 
often necessary in this section. ■ 

Mr. Nev/comer. Flave you found 2 lbs. of arsenate of lead 
to control curculio on the peach? 

Ans. A great deal of work along this line has been done, and 
as Mr. Scott recommends 2 lbs. I infer that it is the strength which 
he has found sufficient. 

W. S. Adams. How Long will self-boiled lime-sulphur 
keep ? 

Ans. It will keep quite a long time. I do not know that the 
limit has been determined but it is several weeks, at least. It has 
been used several weeks after it was prepared and it was appar- 
ently in good condition. It should be kept in a closed vessel, on 
account of evaporation. At the strength referred to it Avill stand 
without crvstalizing. 

W. H. Black. Has the use of lime-sulphur been extended to 
potatoes ? 

Ans. Xot to my knowledge. There is not the necessity for 
that as in the case of fruit trees. Bordeaux is eft'ective in treating 
potato diseases and causes no injury. 



Trinity of Successful Orcharding' 
FERTILIZE-CULTIVATE-SPRAY 

—Bailey. 



37 




I'lCKi-Xi., .VlL^:-,!- CuL'-Xii VuRK l-Mi'KklAL. 

( Nothing but Fancy Fruit in Sight.) 



SUCCESSFUL ORCHARDING IN VIRGINIA. 



Hux. S. L. LuPTox. ]]'inchcster, Va. 



yiv. President. Ladies and Gentlement. members of the Adams 
County Horticultural Society : 

If you will turn to your programs you will see that I have been 
invited to tell you about successful orcharding in A^irginia and I 
desire at the outset to take exception to that title to the remarks I 
shall make. 

I have come among you not to tell you of successful orcharding 
but to tell you of the mistakes I have made. I helped to plant the 
first commercial apple orchard ever planted in the A'alley of Vir- 
ginia and can therefore trace my mistakes from the very beginning 
of things horticulturally speaking. 

I can tell you of these mistakes. hoA^'ever. Avith less shame and 
sorrow because if my contact with human nature has taught me 



38 



anything, it has taught me that in spite of my advice and example 
you will probably go right on making the same mistakes I have 
made. 

1 feel really ashamed to tell you of the good results I have 
achieved when I have done so many things I should not have done 
and left undone so many thing I should have done. . I fully expect 
you will buy poor trees because they are cheap, as I did, and I have 
not much cloubt but that most of you will select the poorest field 
on the farm for an orchard as I did. 

Then in all probability the cows and sheep will be turned into 
the young orchard as mine were, and ni)^ friends, of all the 57 
different ways in which I have tried to kill apple trees the best is 
an old brindle cow costing about $30.00 and I expect most of you 
have that kind. Your country here in Adams county looks very 
nuich like ours in the A^alley of Virginia and therefore I must 
]:)resume that your problems are very near the same as our own, 
especially so as most of the A'alley of A'irginia was originally set- 
tled by people from Pennsylvania, and you will be surprised to 
Ivuow what a fine upstandi;:g fellow a Pennsylvania Dutchman 
makes after he has lived in Virginia a hundred years or so. 

We Vv'ill suppose, if you please, that some of you are about 
to start an orchard, and let me preface my remarks by saying that 
I shall be glad to have you interrupt me by asking any question that 
happens to come into your mind while I am speaking. Let us sup- 
pose then that some of you are about to plant an orchard the first 
consideration should, of course, he the location and on that point 
I would recommend you very earnestly to secure the expert advice 
of Prof. Gould of the Department of Agriculture at Washington, 
who is here with you to-day. Prof. Gould has spent many years in 
all parts of the country studying soil and climatic conditions with 
special relation to their adaptability for fruit growing and can 
therefore give you material assistance on the most important point 
of location. 

In a general way select a site for the orchard where there is 
good soil and air drainage, particularly the latter. 

If you plant fruit trees in a location where the night air lies 
still and sleeps, look out for frequent frost injury and all sorts of 
fungous diseases. I know, because that is one of the mistakes I 
made. 

Plant on the best land you have that is suitable for the purpose 
— not the land you can best spare for the purpose or the land that 
is least useful for other purposes. If there is a real good apple 
orchard on real poor land I don't know where to find it. 

After having selected your piece of ground, it becomes neces- 
sary to select the trees. Aly very strong advice is not to plant any- 
thing but good trees. The average farmer, who expects to be a 
fruit grower, had better plant the larger trees just because they are 
large. 

C. J. Tyson. Which would you plant yourself? 
Mr. Lupton. I am planting two year old trees. If you are 
going to specialize and make fruit growing your principal business, 



it is probably as well to plant the one year old trees, but not for the 
average farmer fruit grower. 

C. J. Tyson. AA^on't we get better trees by planting yearlings ? 

Mr. Lupton. There is not enough difference so that you will 
notice it in three or four years. I have had no trouble in getting 
good stands with two year old trees. 

E. P. Garrettson. Do we not get a better root start in yearl- 
ing trees ? 

Mr. Lupton. That is largely a matter of opinion. I must 
confess that my success has been better with the larger trees. I 
have no very great preference but always plant two year olds. Alost 
of us plant our trees a little too shallow. A tree should be planted 
to a considerable depth, as they have a tendency to make a deeper 
root system if so planted. I think that most of us are apt to hurry 
the job of planting trees. We do not do the work quite well enough. 
The question is, what is too deep? j\Iy practice has been to plant 
somewhat deeper than in the nursery, three or four inches deeper. 
Aly experience in planting Kieffer pears was one of the mistakes 
I made. I planted them too shallow. The roots grew above the top 
of the ground. The Kieffer pear is a tree that needs to be planted 
quite a little deeper than the apple, however. My own experience 
has taught me to urge deeper planting wherever it is possible to be 
done. 

The actual selection of the trees is a matter of the greatest im- 
portance. The time was when we were very much afraid of a dis- 
ease in the top of the trees. It seems to me we spent too much time 
and attention in examining the top of the tree and not enough to 
the roots of the tree. The root of the tree, being in the ground, is 
lost to sight and whatever is wrong with it is apt to stay wrong. 
Take extra pains in securing clean stock from the nursery. 

How^ are we to tell whether the trees are sound or not? One 
of my mistakes was that I selected trees myself. I planted a lot 
•of trees which I thought were healthy and had to dig them up, 
I would, therefore, again urge you to be extremely careful. The 
best way to bring about the selection of trees is through your organi- 
zation, by paying some expert man to go to the nursery and see 
that you get good trees. That ought to be the fundamental prin- 
ciple of your organization. 

W. C. Tyson. ]>efore you plant them do you do any root 
pruning, and how much ? 

Mr. Lupton. The usual practice in our section, and my pres- 
ent practice, is not to prune the roots any more than can be helped, 
If there is a broken root cut that off, but they have usually been 
pruned sufficiently when taken out of the nursery. Prune the root 
as little as possible. 

C. S, Griest. Do you use budded or grafted trees? 

Mr. Lupton. I have never used budded trees. There is a 
wide controversy in the press and amongst nurserymen about j^iece 
root grafting and whole root grafting. The onlv diff'erence so far 
as I can see is that the whole root has a longer piece than the piece 
root. My present plan is to buy the trees from the most reliable 



40 



man I can find and then not to trust him for anything. Having 
planted the trees, it has been my custom of late, to prune them after 
planting, I think probably you can get at the tree for cutting back 
better and more intelligently after it is planted than before. I am 
speaking in reference to two year old trees. Aly observation and 
experience has been that you can make a better and quicker job of 
it. I prune them any time during the winter after fall planting. 

W. C. Tyson. Do you trim them to a switch? 

Mr. Lupton. I suppose I am something of a crank on the sub- 
ject of trimming-, have always been opposed to the too free use of 
a pruning knife. The pruning has to go until the limbs get to some 
size. I prune very little. I think possibly I have been too extreme 
on this subject of not cutting back the trees, but I have not yet 
gotten my own consent to cut back a newly planted tree to a 
switch. 

I have great trouble in getting properly shaped trees from the 
nursery. That is one of the things that I do not know how better 
to express than to say it is simply a part of the game. There are 
two general theories, one a vase shaped and one a pyramid shaped 
tree. Make it the shape that will best suit the particular tree. 
Sometimes it lends itself more readily to one and sometimes to 
the other kind of trimming. I would prefer the Vase shaped if I 
had my choice. But, after all, the shape of the tree is not of 
nearly so much importance as some people seem to think. It is 
our practice, almost invariably to plant trees in the fall and to culti- 
vate the ground in corn the following spring. I cannot see that 
this is seriously objectionable, but the question arises at once, what 
to do with that field after you have taken the corn crop off. 

Mr. Cohill. How about crimson clover? 

Mr. Lupton. I have tried sowing crimson clover, with only 
fair success. 

C. J. Tyson. How about rye to turn down next spring? 

Mr. Lupton. I have tried sowing rye, and that is better than 
anvthing else I have ever tried, only I turned it down too late. 

Mr. Cohill. We are very successful with clover. 

David Knouse. A number of our people have set out trees 
this spring and have it in corn, what would you advise to do with, 
the ground next spring? 

Mr. Lupton. I have just said that is the objection to putting 
corn in an orchard. Next spring I would advise cultivating that 
ground until perhaps the middle of June then sowing in cow 
peas or crimson clover. I am inclined to think what I would do 
in your case would be to break the gTound next spring, cultivate 
it three or four or five times, to say about the middle of June ex- 
pecting to get your cow^ peas well up by the middle of July. 

After you have your orchard fairly started, there comes the 
question of pruning, spraying, etc. I think that is the time when 
perhaps the pruning ought to be attended to with the greatest care, 
when the tree is young. A great many of our fruit growers seem 
to think that an orchard does not need to be sprayed until after it 
becomes badly infested witli scale or comes in to bearing. Trees 



41 



ought to be sprayed annually whether they have any fungus dis- 
eases or not. We think we do not have any disease until all at 
once we discover our trees are covered with it. Fungus diseases, 
scale or cedar rust will come on young trees and retard their 
growth just as much as on older tree in bearing. 

I would advise continual annual spraying after the first year, 
and perhaps the very first year. 

W. S. Adams. How far apart do you plant them? 

Mr. Lupton. Thirty-six feet usually. The first orchard 1 
planted myself, the permanent trees were 36 feet apart and then a 
tree in the centre of each square, the middle or filler tree to be pulled 
out later. This plan turned out to be my salvation. I selected 
Winesap for a permanent orchard and Ben Davis as a filler, and 
later I cut the Winesap out and kept the Ben Davis. I would ad- 
vise using fillers only under certain conditions. 

This year I am planting some newer varieties, and planting 
them alternately as described. Am also planting some Stayman 
\\^inesap and some Jonathan. The Jonathan is a problem with us 
and I am using both Stayman and Jonathan now and shall determine 
in ten or twelve years from now which one to cut out. I have one 
block of trees in which the York Imperial is started for the perma- 
nent orchard and have 500 Duchess, 500 Grimes Golden, 500 Gano 
and 500 W'ealthy planted in with the York Imperials, as fillers. I 
may conclude to take out the York Imperials and leave some of the 
Duchess. I am hoping, however, to get a few crops before I have 
to take either of them out, and will decide then which to leave. 
There are quite a few of our growers planting in that way and I 
am inclined to think it is a pretty good plan. 

The trees, with us, come into bearing, so that it is worth while 
to consider the crop, at 7 or 8 years, and, in the meantime, we must 
spray annually for fungus diseases of various kinds. I have never 
tried to make my own lime sulphur. I am aware that in buying the 
concentrated Lime-Sulphur it costs me a little more, but until this 
fall I have not lived on my farm, and have depended on a foreman, 
and it seemed to me that he had his hands full and if I stopped him 
to make the solution he would lose a great deal of time when he 
ought to be spraying. A great many of our growers have made their 
own solution but the result has not always been satisfactqry, and 
my notion is that the making of these spraying solutions is a much 
more delicate task than we think it is. Up to this time I have never 
tried it. I have used the concentrated Lime-Sulphur and shall do 
so again this year. 

I am using compressed air for a spraying power and while it 
is perhaps the most expensive outfit I could select, I think it the 
best and therefore cheapest in the long run. I have a water supply 
that is very satisfactory. Both of our orchards were known in 
our country as dry farms, that is with no running water available 
for spraying. I bored one well 180 feet and one 135 feet and have 
been able to use the compressed air for pumping the water as well 
as for spraying the trees. The compressed air pumps the water at 
the rate of 60 gallons a minute. I have the same kind of well on 



4^ 

each place. The spray tank holds from 135 to 140 gallons. The 
air tank and spray tank, both same size, la}" un the wagon like two 
logs, and are bolted down to a frame which hts on an ordinary farm 
wagon. I spray with a pressure of 100 pounds, and anywhere from 
that up to 200 poinids when the tank is full. 

C. J. Tyson. Can you control that pre-sure? 

Mr. Lupton. A\'ithout any trouble whatever. The man on 
the wagon has no trouble at all in controlling the pressure. We 
spray with approximately 100 pound-. I have six of those outhts 
and use six two-horse teams, and twelve men can keep five teams 
spraying all the time. 

Mr. Cohil. Do you prefer compressed air to gasoline engine 
outfit ? 

Mr. Lupton. I have never used the gasoline engine outfit. 
Some of my neighbors have and the majority of them have had 
more rir less trouble. 

W. C. Tyson. AMiat horse power engine do you have? 

Mr. Lupton. I have an 8-horse power engine that I use to 
cut hay. straw, fodder and wood, and do the farm work and use 
this same engine for spraying, 

J. W. Prickett. How long does it take to charge the tank? 

Mr. Lupton. It takes about seven minutes to load up the tank. 
I have been able, on one or two occasions, to get over my orchard 
of 300 acres, in about seven days, and that seems to me the full 
limit of tniie that I can aft'ord to take for it. 

Dr. Stover. How manv gallons do you require for your 
spraying ? 

Mr. Lupton. Really I could not say. I just keep on buying 
until I get enough. A\'e spray out about 5.000 gallons a day. two 
leads of hose on each tank and one nozzle to each lead. 

E. P. Garrettson. AA'liat nozzle do vou use ? 

Mr. Lupton. I use the Friend nozzle, and yesterday I ordered 
some of the Bean nozzles to try. I could not tell you who makes 
these compressed air sprayers. I got the tanks from Chicago, the 
engine from your own state, at Erie. The hose and extension rods 
I got from Gould's, at Seneca Falls, just picked it up where I could 
get the best outfit. There is a pipe extends the whole length of 
the liquid tank, about eig'ht feet long, through which the compressed 
air enters and you can hear it boiling all the time. I think our 
^lartinsburg friends have been improving on that by using some 
kind of sprocket chain agitator. 

J. W. Prickett. — Have you used self-boiled lime sulphur?' 

Answer. ?\ot to any extent. Will try it inore fully this com- 
ing summer. 

Question. How large are your spray tanks? 
Answer. About 140 gallons. 

Mr. Lupton. I bought a small air compressor and found that 
it took me three-quarters of an hour to pump u]) the tank. It was 
an air pump and not an air compressor, and the back pressure tore 
it all to pieces so I got another and larger one. 



43 



E. P. Garrettson. Is the liquid you use for spraying hard on 
the tank? 

Answer. Xo, 1 expected it would be but it has now been in 
use four vears and the tanks are all right. They are made of 
galvanized steel. 

E. P. Garrettson. Is not sulphate of copper hard on steel? 

Mr. Lupton. I have used almost every thing — Bordeaux lime 
sulphur and arsenate of lead but the meanest thing I have to use 
is arsenate of lead and lime-sulphur. 

E. P. Garrettson. Is lOO pounds sufficient? 

Mr. Lupton. I think so. IMaybe I did do a little better 
with a higher pressure, but I remember when we had the old- 
fashioned hand-pump and thought we were doing pretty well with 
probably not over forty pounds, and now we think we are not doing 
good work unless we are gomg a little higher than lOO. One hun- 
dred is the best we can do with compressed air. That is the limit 
of the pressure. 

E. P. Garrettson. Is it dangerous on that account? 

Mr. Lupton. I have thought about that and talked about it to 
people that ought to know, and hardly think it is. 

E. P. Garrettson. The trouble is we cannot see inside the 
tank to know how much it is rusting. 

J. W. Prickett. A\'hat sized pipe do you use in your well ? 

Mr. Lupton. A i ;4 inch pipe. If you have proper conditions 
in a dug well it will answer the same purpose. I have had consid- 
erable trouble m gettiiig water out of a deep well with an ordinary 
pump. 

Mr. Cohill. Has your compressed air been entirely satisfac- 
tory ? 

Mr. Lupton. There is only one objection that I can see and 
that is the agitation. ]\Iy friends at A\'ashington asked me to send 
a sample from the tank when I first began to spray and another 
when it was nearly out, and they say there was no dift'erence. The 
first two or three trees that are sprayed show an excess of lime. 
I called attention to this and they say there would naturally be an 
excess of lime which would come out first from the bottom of the 
tank and would do no harm. 

J. W. Prickett. Do you think that comes from the Xozzle 
being clogged? 

Mr. Lupton. Xo, when }'0u first begin to spray you spray 
from the bottom. I try not to leave any licjuid in the tank over 
night, so as to start fresh each morning. 

E. P. Garrettson. Do you use Lime-Sulphur for scale? 

Mr. Lupton. Yes. I bought an orchard a year ago very 
badly infested with scale and used oil on it twice and lime-sulphur 
twice. L'sed oil in the fall and lime-sulphur in the spring, and after 
two applications I got an expert to come up from AA'ashington and 
ascertain whether he thought best to use another application of oil. 
He thought I had better try the oil one more time. The second 
year I used oil in the fall and lime-sulphur in the spring as before 



44 



and can find no sign of scale whatever. I shall spray it thoroughly 
again this winter with lime sulphur as a precaution. 

E. P. Garrettson. What brand do you use principally? 

Mr. Lupton. I have been using the Thomsen Chemical Co.'s 
goods. I read a very interesting statement from Prof. Stewart of 
your state as to the affect of the summer spray of lime-sulphur in 
controlling scale, and I take it from that article that Prof. Stewart 
thinks that the summer spray of lime-sulphur will probably result 
in 3^our being able to leave oft' the winter spray, perhaps two years 
out of three. That is my interpretation of his article which I hope 
may prove correct. 

There is oae other point about this qestion of fruit growing 
that is interesting and that is the selling of the fruit. If we do our 
duty and grow the right kind of fruit and put it up in the right 
way, it will sell itself. I don't believe we need worry about selling 
the fruit. Perhaps this branch of the subject can better be dis- 
cussed under the head of organization. We are so bountifully 
blessed in this country both in locality, soil, climate and markets, 
that we have more than fair returns for our labor. 

Another big thing that has always impressed me as being one 
of the chief values of fruit growing in this or other countries, is 
that it keeps the young men at home. It is sad to me to see a 
sturdy old farmer and his wife and hear them talk of their boy 
who has gone to the city. It has seemed to me that this develop- 
ment of fruit growing will keep the young men at home. Why not 
set apart a few acres on the farm for the boy's orchard and get 
liim interested in fruit growing before he begins to think about go- 
ing to the city. 

W. C. Tyson. How about the packing, do you think we 
should use the box exclusively or the barrel, or both? 

Mr. Lupton. This year there is something wrong about the 
box packing.' The situation is a puzzle to me. I have been talking 
to everyone who would listen to me about boxed apples. For some 
reason, unknown to me, the boxed package seems to be having a 
hard time this winter. Just what this means I do not know. It 
may mean there was a larger crop in the Pacific Northwest than 
was expected. Certain it is we must get some better package than 
the barrel. We tumble the fruit into the barrel and roll it about and 
put a press on it and smash the apples all to pieces. We ought to 
have some better method than that. The labor question is a serious 
one with us and of course this has to be considered when deciding 
on the form of package. 

Perhaps you can get labor better here in Adams County than 
we can but with us it would be impossible to secure enough labor 
to handle our crop in the time necessary. 

This season I had over eleven thousand barrels to pick, pack 
and deliver, and the work had to be done in a month. 

I have always been much in favor of the box package but I 
confess the situation this year has staggered me. I understand that 
this year many apples are being taken out of boxes and put in bar- 
rels, and I do not quite understand the situation. And then again 



45 



while box apples are very low, barreled apples are higher than I have 
ever known them to be. 

'Mr. President, we fruit growers of the east are having a great 
opportunity and I believe are doing a great work. 

Fruit growing is the highest form of agriculture and if prop- 
erly and intelligently conducted will do much to put the profession 
of agriculture in its proper place among the arts and sciences. 

I use the word profession advisedly, ^Ir. President, and would 
like to see every farmer and fruit grower regard himself as a pro- 
fesional man. and insist that his profession be given proper con- 
sideration everywhere. Let us strive always to grow good fruit, 
pack it honestly and be sure it will bring a fair price in tiie market. 
I am very glad indeed. ]\Ir. President, to have had this opportunity 
to meet with the Adams County fruit growers and would like very 
much to see many of you visit our own great Valley. 

I feel that there is room enough for all in the fruit business 
and have no fear that it will be overdone. 

Hoping to have the pleasure of another visit to your beautiful 
county I thank you for your very close attention to my somewhat 
rambling description of the way we do things in Mrginia. 




Williams' Early Red. 
A ver}- satisfactory Red Apple for early summer. 



46 



SOME SUGGESTIONS ABOUT THE MANAGEMENT 
OF ORCHARDS. 



H. P. Gould, U. S. Dept. of Agriculture 

In the management of orchards we hke to think we are pro- 
gressive and modern in our methods and up-to-date, blazing the 
way along new trails. For quite a good many years now I have 
been talking orchard management at horticultural societv meetings 
and other similar places and I have been thinking all the time that 
I was advocating modern practices to meet modern conditions. 
However, listen to this: "But the misfortune is. that too frequent- 
ly after orchards are planted and fenced,, th.ey have seldom any 
more care bestowed upon them. Bough.- are all'jwed to hang 
dangling to the ground, their heads are so loaded with woud as 
to be almost impervious to sim and air. and they are left to be ex- 
hausted by moss and injured by cattle, etc." 

Doesn't that sound very much like a description of some of 
the present day conditions? And again: "The feelings of a lover 
of improvement can scarcely be expressed on observing the almost 
universal inattention paid to the greater number of our orchards, 
and that people who go to considerable expense in planting and es- 
tablishing them, afterwards leave them to the rude hand of nature ; 
as if the art and ingenuity of man availed nothing, or that they mer- 
ited no further care." 

A'erily. a repetition of much that is said about many orchards, 
of the present day. But if modern conditions are thus represented 
to any extent, somewhat ancient conditions are also portrayed in 
the same language for it is thus that old Bernard ]\IAIahon vrote 
more than a hundred years ago in his "American Gardeners" Calen- 
der"' which Avas published in 1806. It is interesting to note in pa-s- 
ing that this is probably tne hrst distinctively American book relat- 
ing to gardening and fruit growing that was published in this 
country. 

The statements I have quoted above therefore apparently rep- 
resent common conditions with reference to the orchards at a very 
early day. Unfortunately such conditions have persisted to a 
greater or less extent to the pre-ent time. 

It necessarily follows then that there is nothing new or modern 
in the oft-repeated observations of the present day relative to our 
neglected orchards. There have been such orchards from the be- 
ginning and there doubtless will be such ones when the end of time 
comes. 

I have been wondering a good deal lateh- what real progress 
we have made anywav in the management of orchards during the 
l^resent period of rapid extension of the fruit industry. 



47 



AMiatever other changes there haA'e been, none are greater than 
the changes in the "point of view" regarding fruit production. 
And our present understanding of fundamental principles surely 
represents marked lines of advancement. Listen again to Bernard 
.M'Malion to show a contrast between some of the notions of a 
hundred years ago and present-day conceptions about the same 
thing: "When a tree has stood so long, that the leading roots have 
entered into the under strata, they are apt to draw a crude fluid, 
which the organs of the more delicate fruit trees cannot convert int.^ 
such balsamic juices as to produce hue fruit." Even if the orchards 
of Bernard IM'^Iahon's day were representative in many respects 
of the orchards of our own time, the understanding of his time 
reo-ardino- the nutrition of the trees was indeed not the modern one. 
And we note a very marked advance towards what we believe is 
the truth when it comes to the matter of plant foods. Xearly 25 
vears later than, the time when Bernard ^I'Mahon wrote — in 1829 
— Jethro TuU said. "It is agreed that all the following materials 
contribute in some manner to the increase of plants, but it is dis- 
puted which of them is that very increase of food. i. Xitre : 2. 
Water: 3. Air: 4. Fire: 5. Earth." Further on in his argument 
this ancient writer states apparently to his own satisfaction, that it 
is in reality earth that is the true food of plants. And he says : 
"Too much earth, or too fine, can never possiblv be given to roots; 
for they never receive so much of it as to surfeit the plant, luiless 
it be deprived of leaves, which, as lungs should purify it." His 
philosophy of tillage was that it made the earth sufficientlv fine so 
that the roots could take up and assimilate it< very minute particles. 
In other words, as he viewed it the root-^ of plants literallv ate up 
the earth when it was made stifficiently fire for them to do so. 
And no doubt these views represented the best information and 
thought of the times 75 and 100 vears ago. 

But we want to turn now to some of the more living issues. 
A\'hat I have said tiius far. however, is by way of stating that in 
talking about the management of orchards here to-day I have no 
new story to tell and I don't suppose there is any originalitv in the 
manner of presentation. But if I can aid any of vou in better 
understanding the wJiy of things, or if I can help you to gain a 
better "point of view" — a better way of looking at things, mv com- 
ing here will perhaps have been worth while. 

The more I study orchard, management, however, and the 
more I try to tell about it. the more I think there is in it — in the 
telling — a strong similarity to trying to tell how to choose a wife or 
when to spank the small boy. I should like some intelligent advice 
regarding the latter proceeding, myself, but somehow the things 
that work \\ell in other cases fail flatly in my own experiences. 
That is just the way it is in managing orchards. Xo rule-of-thumb 
methods can be applied. What is good in one case is not necessar- 
il}- good in another because of differences in conditiqjis. 

Right at the very outstart there are a number of important 
considerations in which great numbers of fruit growers fail. The 
American propensity for doing big things is at the bottom of one 



48 



of the commonest failures and that is in planting too large or- 
chards. The fruit grovv'ers of this country have become so fully 
imbued with the idea of c[uantity that in great numbers of cases 
he has lost sight of quality. Where this has occurred the grower, 
the consumer and the fruit industry have suffered. An orchard 
is too large when its extent precludes the possibility of applying in- 
tensive methods of management. 

The average American fruit grower has been slow to learn the 
fact that quality of product should dominate every other considera- 
tion in fruit production; that just as soon as quality is sacrificed to 
quantity or to any other thing, all the interests concerned are made 
to suffer thereby. 

In many cases of over-sized orchards the grower realizes that 
something is the trouble, but he fails to comprehend just where it 
lies. Or if he does understand it, he hasn't the nerver to apply the 
remedy. 

Within the past few years certain sections in some of the 
Rocky Mountain and Pacific Coast States have become world-wide 
famous for their apples and other fruits. This fame has been 
built up largely an three practices ; the intensive management of 
small individual orchards ; the most skillful and business-like meth- 
ods of marketing the fruit, thus making a reputation which is an 
actual cash asset ; the united efforts of all parties interested includ- 
ing fruit growers, commercial clubs or other business organizations, 
railroads, and other agencies, not the least of which has been the 
real estate agent in everlastingly booming and advertising the par- 
ticular sections in which they were interested — and then keeping 
forever at it. By these methods any good locality for the pro- 
duction of fruit may make a reputation which will be known wher- 
ever fruit is eaten. In some cases, however, so much noise about 
a locality or region has been unfortunate for it has been overdone. 

Many of these western sections to which I refer and which are 
now known the country over, would be entirely unknown — some of 
them not even on the map — were it not for the application of just 
these methods I have named. 

In the Grand Valley of Colorado there are relatively very few 
orchards of ten acres in extent ; in the Hood River section of Ore- 
gon the same thing is true and it is freely admitted in that section 
that their success has come from the intensive management of small 
orchards — to which should be added, and it is no small factor, 
co-operative methods of marketing their fruit. But the size of an 
orchard, it should be added, ought to be measured by the size of 
the man back of it, not by a surveyor's chain. 

Now to touch upon more concrete matters, there are one or 
two things I want to say about orchard locations, for there are 
many orchards throughout the country that can never be made suc- 
cessful because their location is so faulty. Not infrequently or- 
chards are planted on a site that looks well but if the subsoil is 
examined a solid ledge of rock will be found perhaps three or four 
feet below the surface. Where this condition occurs an orchard 
is an impossibility under most conditions. 



49 



I 

I 



I 
I 



i 




Fig. I. Section of soil about three feet deep, under- 
laid by solid rock — a soil condition that should be 
regarded as "impossible" in selecting orchard sites. 

Figure i shows a soil section that would appear well for almost 
any purpose in a moderately wet season but the rock stratum is 
entirely too near the surface for orchard purposes. Contrast this 
with Fig. 2 which shows a fairly porous subsoil and permits the 
easy penetration of the roots (a pine tree in this case) to almost 
any depth. 

A more serious matter, however, because it is more common, is 
a location that is faulty from the standpoint of atmospheric drain- 
age. The importance of a location having good air drainage has 
been made very emphatic in almost countless instances during the 
past few years. You know how cold air will settle to the lower 
levels. A very common observation in spring or fall is a killing 
frost in low places and none at all in elevated places. This simply 
means that the cold air which is heavier than w'arm air has settled 
to the low places crowding the warmer air up to a higher stratum. 
The result is the killing frost observed on low ground and the ab- 
sence of it on high ground. 



50 




Fig. 2. A soil section showing a porous subsoil 
which may easily be penerated by the roots of trees 
(stick bv side of root is five feet long.) 



Practical demonstrations of the bearing which this has on suc- 
cessful fruit growing have been many times repeated during the 
past few years in the good crop of fruit on high ground and in the 
same localities their destruction by late spring frosts. 

But I want to discuss very briefly some of the fundamental 
operations that make up "orchard management." 

We think of orchard management as consisting of cultivation, 
fertilizing, pruning, spraying, etc., and perhaps we may come to 
add heating or smudging and other corresponding operations. But 
orchard management is really more than these things so far as re- 
sults go for in the handling of every orchard there goes into it the 
individuality of the grower or manager — the "personal ecjuation" 
and that is a most important factor in the behavior and success of 
every orchard. I am coming to put more and more importance 
upon "the man behind the tree." A man's orchard reflects his per- 
sonalitv. 



51 



Taking up now some of these fundamental orchard operations, 
we perhaps may ask first of ah: Shall we cultivate or shall \\'e not 
cultivate? That is a very important C|uestion. Its correct answer 
all depends upon conditions. The man who believes in tillage says 
"cultivate." The advocate of the sod mulch method says ''No culti- 
vation" and there you are I Both may be right, both may be 
wrong : each one may be right and each one wrong part of the time. 
It all depends I It f recjuently is the case, however, that neither one 
knows just what he is accomplishing in terms of actual and ulti- 
mate results by the particular method he has adopted or is advo- 
cating. If he happens to be giving thorough cultivation, this is 
about what he is accomplishing by the operation : ( i ) improving 
the physical condition of the land: (2) conserving the soil moisture; 
( 3 ) increasing the chemical activities of the soil. 

The influence of tillage has been very adecj[uately set forth by 
Prof. Bailey. I cannot do better than to quote him in this con- 
nection 

Tillage improves the physical condition of the land. 

(a) By fining the soil, and thereby presenting greater feeding sur- 

face to the roots ; 

(b) By increasing the depth of the soil, and thereby giving a great- 

er foraging and root-hold area to the plant ; 

(c) By warming and drying the soil in spring. 

(d) By reducing the extremes of temperature and moisture. 

2. Tillage ma}- save moisture, 

(e) By increasing the water-holding capacity of the soil ; 

(f) B}- checking evaporation. 

3. Tillage may augment chemical activities, 

(g) By aiding in setting free plant-food; 

(h) By promoting nitrification; 

(i) By hastening the decomposition of organic matter; 

(j) By extending these agencies ( g, h, i ) to greater depths of the 
soil."' 

To these effects of tillage there may also be added a secondary 
influence, namely the maintenance of the surface of the' soil in such 
condition that it will readily absorb the water that falls on it as 
rain, thus redticing the "rtm-oft"'' or surface drainage to a minimum. 

It is probably within conservative bounds to say that the vast 
majority of orchards require, in the average season, for maximum 
restflts, all the benefits enumerated that can be supplied or enhanced 
by tillage. 

But I stippose the advocate of the sod mulch system claims that 
he is accomplishing the same thing by his methods. It should be 
observed, however, thus early in the discussion that a great many 
who claim to practice the sod mulch system are doing nothing of 
the kind. They are simply not cultivating. They may even be 
harvesting a crop of hay from their orchards. But because it is 
in sod and they are not cultivating it — that to them is the sod mulch 
method. The sod mulch method implies a mulch — not a crop of 
hay. Of course there may be both but more often one of these 
things is at the expense of the other. You cannot use the grass 



* Principles of Fruit Growing, p. 139. 



52 



that grows in an orcliard for hay and leave it on the ground at 
the same time to decay and enrich the soil. 

The sod mulch system, means that there must be a mulch. As 
j)racticed by those who are the most consistent in the matter, the 
grass that the sod produces is allowed to lie on the ground where it 
falls, or in the case of young orchards perhaps it is gathered more 
or less under the trees, to serve as a mulch to protect the soil form 
the excessive heat of summer, and, in time, to decay and become 
incorporated into it. Commonly the grass is cut two or three 
times during the season, especially if it is making an abundant 
growth. Frequently it is the case, especially after an orchard has 
reached considerable age and the ground becomes much shaded 
thereby, that there is not sufficient grass grown in it to supply an 
adequate mulch. AMiat does he do in that case? If he is consist- 
ently following this system, he mulches his orchard without fail. 
But he hauls straw and other similar material into the orchard to 
accomplish the purpose. This may seem more or less visionary to 
some but the practice is a reality all the same. 

The effects of tillage have already been enumerated, \Miat of 
the sod mulch system — what is that accomplishing in comparison 
with tillage? Well, the mulch doubtless conserves the moisture 
to some extent so far as its evaporation from the soil is concerned 
because it serves as a covering for the soil if it is properly main- 
tained. But on the other hand, granting that the mulch consists 
entirely of the grass grown in the orchard, the fact that it requires 
a vast amount of moisture to grow it should not be overlooked. In 
many cases this moisture might better be conserved for use of the 
trees. Then too, the mulch as it decays, works down to the sur- 
face of the soil through the grass stubble and becomes more or less 
incorporated into the surface, but it cannot be that the influence of 
its ameliorating eft"ect extends into the soil to any considerable 
depth. Of course there is more or less decay of the fine hairy roots 
of the grass each year and in this way humus is added to a slight 
extent. But Avhen we contrast the two methods — tillage and sod 
mulch — their influence so far as soil conditions are concerned ap- 
pear more by contrast than they do in comparison one with the 
other. 

Xo one would think of growing corn or potatoes or pumpkins 
in sod. So far as the philosophy of tillage is concerned, if it is 
good for corn or pumpkins, it is also good for apples. There are 
no essential differences between trees and the annual crops in the 
manner in which they live and grow. Experience. I think, fully 
demonstrates that this reasoning is sound ; that tillage should be 
the rule and that when variations from the rule are made, it should 
be the sod mulch method that becomes the exceptional one. 

It is true that many orchards which are given the sod mulch 
treatment, or even orchards used as hay fields, if you please, are 
measurably successful. But where such success appears to be 
marked and perhaps appears to completely vindicate the wisdom of 
the practice, it should not be forgotten that the measure of success 
that obtains may be in spifc of the method rather than because 



53 



of it. It is often surprising how much hard treatment a tree will 
withstand and still reward its owner with a crop of fruit! 

Before leaving this matter of the sod mulch, however, I wish 
to add that it does, beyond any doubt whatever, have its place in 
fruit growing, especially in the case of apples and pears. With the 
latter, on account of blight, a rather slow, firm, growth is desirable 
in contrast to a rapid succulent growth. The influences of tillage 
may easily induce the latter. And with apples, it does not neces- 
sarily follow that seeding the orchard down for a year or two at a 
time when cultivation is the rule is not often times of direct benefit. 
The thing to do is to cultivate for the sake of the trees, not for 
the sake of the cultivation and when the trees by their appearance 
and behavior cry "enough," then seed down for a year or two 
to clover or grass of some kind. Fortunate, indeed, is the man 
who is so expert at interpreting the appearance and behavior of 
his trees that he knows when to cultivate and when not to do so. 
But this constitutes one of the fundamental difi^erences between 
fruit growers. Then, too, the topography of many sites well suit- 
ed otherwise to fruit growing is such that continuous tillage is 
out of the question on account of the washing of the soil which 
would follow that practice. In such cases the benefits of tillage 
which might otherwise result advantageously must of course be 
foregone for obvious reasons. 

But continuous tillage of an orchard year after year — that 
thorough tillage which means clean cultivation — will gradually work 
ruin to the physical condition of any soil because it means a con- 
tinouous diminution in the supply of humus or decaying vegetable 
matter which is absolutely essential to its fertility. Clean tillage 
then must be accompanied more or less frequently with a green 
manure crop. Fruit growers and others have been slow to realize 
or to understand the importance of maintaining the humus sup- 
ply of the soil. But gradually it is becoming appreciated. All over 
the country, even in the prairie sections where the exhaustless rich- 
ness of the soil has been the boast for years past, the necessity of 
growing green manure crops is becoming apparent and the fruit 
growers are seeing its meaning. 

As a rule some legume is desirable for a cover crop because of 
the nitrogen which it takes from the air and adds to the soil. In 
a cow pea country, perhaps, there is nothing better than this crop ; 
but crimson clover, common red clover, vetch, etc., are frequently 
used. Among the non-leguminous crops used, rye is perhaps the 
most common. Buckwheat, rape and various other things are also 
of value. 

These cover crops permit of tillage through the most important 
portion of the growing season, then following the cessation of that, 
perhaps in July, the cover or green manure crop is sowed. 

Thorough tillage and the use of leguminous cover crops go a 
long way in maintaining the fertility of the soil in an orchard. 
Further than this I am inclined to pass over the matter of the plant 



54 



food supply for the orchard. But I have ample justification in so 
doing for two reasons : Your own Agricultural Experiment Sta- 
tion is doing more in the investigation of these problems than any 
other institution that I know about. Preliminary results have al- 
ready been published and are available in bulletins from your sta- 
tion. Then, too, enough has already been said to show that the 
''fertility question" of any orchard is a very local question and the 
only place it can be answered for any one of you is right in your 
own orchard. The bulletins of your station suggest how to go 
about answering such questions for yourselves. I therefore pass 
to the next fundamental tenet of orchard management — pruning. 

Relatively, few orchards the country over, are properly pruned. 
In fact, a surprisingly large number are not pruned at all. It will 
help at the outset to have clearly in mind some of the more import- 
ant reasons for pruning. They may be stated as follows : 

1. To keep the trees shapely and within bounds. 

2. To remove dead or interfering Ijranches. 

3. To make trees more stocky. 

4. To thin the fruit. 

5. To open the tree tops to admit air and sunlight. 

6. To make thorough spraying possible. 

7. To facilitate harvesting. 

8. To reduce the struggle for existence in the tree tops. 

9. To produce more fruit of better quality. 

With this enumeration of the reasons for pruning I do not 
kno\^' that very much more need be said, though each reason given 
of course might be considerably amplified. If the truths contained 
in the several captions given are self-evident, as most of them must 
be, to take time to comment about them is to uselessly multiply 
words. 

If a word of explanation is needed at all, it is in regard to 
Caption 8. Perhaps few realize that there is a struggle for exist- 
ence going on in the top of a crowxled tree to^) but such is the case. 
The fingers of one's hand are about as close together as they can 
w^ell be but they are not in the way of one another and there is no 
struggle or competition going on among them for room or for food 
supply. Each has its own allotted amount which is sufficient. If 
one suffers for lack of nourishment or in anv other way, all the 
others suffer with it. Not so in a dense tree top ! Every limb 
and branch is competing. with every other limb and branch, every 
bud with every other bud for room and sunlight and air and food. 
Often the struggle in this competition becomes so sharp that whole 
limbs die for lack of room and sunlight and plant food. The com- 
petition is a merciless one. Now if we keep the tops sufficiently 
thinned out, all is peace. There is no struggle to the death and 
.as a result every bud has food enough to deposit within its folds 
a goodly supply besides making its normal growth; we have a 
well-fed tree and fruit buds strong and vigorous enough to with- 
stand many vicissitudes of climate that would kill outright weaker 
buds. 



55 




Fig. 3. Well pruned open headed Winesap — 9 years old. 

Figure 3 shows a tree that has been well pruned from the first. 
Its head is sufficiently o])en to admit air and sunlight, the tree can 
be thoroughly sprayed and the fruit harvested without the picker 
climbing through a pile of brush. Contrast this tree with the one 
^hown in Figure 4 which is about 8 years old and has not been 
pruned since it was planted. Xote the exceedingly dense head that 
admits neither air nor sunlight. And further, thorough spraying 
is a practical impossibility. 

There is a great deal of difference in the habit of trees, and 
that is just where one of the difficulties comes in pruning. Every 
tree is a problem to itself. When it comes to spraying you can 
tell a man you want every part of the tree covered, and you can 
give him Rule of Thumb methods, and if he is willing to clo as he 
is told, he ought not to have much difficulty in getting it accomplish- 
ed. Not so with pruning, you must be on the job all the time. 

Mr. Anderson. Is it not important to kr.ow how^ the pruning 
should be done? Would it not be unwise, for instance, to give 
the tree shown in Figure 4 too vigorous a pruning at one time ? 

Mr. Gould. Yes. It is a general principle in pruning trees 
that heavy cutting away of wood during the dormant season tends 
to promote wood growth while summer pruning tends to the forma- 
tion of fruit buds. This should be kept constantly in mind. If a 
tree, such as is shown in Figure 4, is to be pruned to thin it out 
and to get it into a more desirable condition, it would be exceedingly 
unwise to proceeed with the idea of reducing the top to the de- 
sired extent at a single pruning. To do so v,'ould result in an ex- 
cessive wood growth next season. At least two seasons, and per- 
haps better three seasons, should be' taken in which to reduce the 



56 

top of a very brushy tree to a proper condition. It is far better, 
however, to prune a httle each year from the beginning, in which 
case no large amount of wood would need to be removed at any 
one time. 



Fig. 4. Eight-year-old iinpriined York ImperiEd 
Apple tree. 

In one of the largest orchards out in Kansas, which is now 10 
or II years old. the manager was only there once in a while, up 
to the time it was 8 years old, the work being in charge of a fore- 
man. The results were not satisfactory and the manager made up 
his mind that he ^\■as going to make a success of that orchard if 
possible. The first thing he did was to begin pruning. He hauled 
out 4,000 loads of brush from 40.000 trees the first season. He 
found it would mean the cutting out of too much wood to shape 
the trees in one season. It would have meant the cutting out of 
one-third of the tops. The next year he hauled out 2,500 loads of 
brush. Year before last he was still continuing the pruning. After 
three years of pruning he thought he would be able to get his trees 
where he wanted them. 

Mr. Newcomer. AMiat was the result in fruit at the end of 
three years ? Did it produce stronger fruit buds ? 



57 



Mr. Gould. It is in a section that suffers from severe frosts, 
but this year, although they had only a partial crop, that orchard 
had more fruit than most of the neighboring orchards had. Its lo- 
cation, however, is a favorable one. 

Mr. Anderson. I think it best to begin when the tree is young 
and keep at it. 

Mr. Frazer. If Figure 4 had been forced to bearing early 
would it have become so thick? 
Mr. Gould. Probably not. 

Mr.. Frazer. If the soil had been impoverished the top would 
probably never have become so dense. Is it not a question of 
locality? Should this man, being located on excessively rich soil, 
be growing fruit, or should he be growing forest trees? 

Mr. Gould. In pruning young peach trees, more or less head- 
ing back is generally practiced. This makes the limbs stocky and 
thus better able to hold up heavy loads of fruit. If no heading 
back is done, the limbs become long and "leggy" and are easily 
broken down with a heavy crop of fruit — to say nothing of the dif- 
ficulties of gathering the fruit from trees that have been allowed 
to grow up into the air at will. I have a photograph here which 
shows a row of trees in one of the most successful West Virginia 
peach orchards. Trees were pruned in the spring and illustrate 
the point in regard to pruning where thinning of fruit is needed. 
It must be remembered that in the case of peach the fruit is borne 
on wood of last year's growth. In such pruning as suggested here 
it certainly does thin the fruit. 

Mr. Frazer. Would you prune that way the first season and 
would you prune every year? 

Mr. Gould. I would as a general proposition. There are a 
great number of conditions which are liable to arise from year to 
year which would make it advisable to omit a year. In this par- 
ticular orchard owing to amount of pruning they have to do they 
must begin early in order to finish in time. If a very cold spell 
occurs while they are pruning the crews are taken out of the or- 
chard until weather moderates and danger of kilHng buds is past. 

Mr. Black. What part of last year's growth would you re- 
move ? 

Mr. Gould. That depends on the vigor and amount of growth. 
It is not an infrequent practice to cut off half of it. 

Robert Garretson. Would you thin out much in addition to 
cutting back? 

Mr. Gould. These trees have been kept well thinned out. 
Keep a comparatively open head in order to give a chance for the 
sunlight and air to get in. 

C. J. Tyson. I know that objections are raised many times 
to heading back, but what is the result if you do not head back? 

Mr. Gould. By the time the peach tree is 10 years old it will 
be so slender that a light crop will pull it down. That is the way 
they develop in a great many cases. 

Mr. Cohill. Would it be best to head back every year? 



58 

Mr. Gould. A very common practice is to keep that up until 
the trees comes into bearing. 

Mr. Myers. Does not winter pruning tend to produce more 
wood growth. 

Mr. Gould. Yes. 

Mr. Myers. Then why prune to make more wood to cut out 
the next year ? 

Mr. Gould. That point was covered in mv first reference to 
pruning. It makes trees more stocky and keeps them within reach 
for picking the fruit. 

J. W. Prickett. Have you anything to sav in regard to re- 
newing a tree that has been spht with too heavy a crop that was not 
thinned enough ? 

Mr. Gould. The first thing is to take the lesson of not thin- 
ning enough and thin more next time. After the trees have been 
broken down the only thing to do is to cut out the broken parts and 
get the trees shaped up for future usefulness. 

In trimming care should be exercised to make the cut at the 
proper place. ]\Iuch harm may be done bv carelesss cutting. The 
cut should be made in a line parallel with the base of the Hmb. 




Fig. 7. W'uund in center healing 
on left side ; right hand side is too 
long to permit of healing. Lower 
wound was made close to trunk and 
is healing rapidh". 




Fig 8. A long stub was left which 
could not heal over. The stub died 
and decayed, making the limb hol- 
low. The stub at the right is adding 
to the trouble. 



Figures 7, 8. and 9, show result of improper cutting. Such wounds 
will never heal over and finally result in permanent damage and 
even death of the tree. All large wounds should be kept painted 
to keep rain from soaking into the wood and when spraying with 
fungicides give these wounds a good soaking. 



59 



Mr. Cohill. A\'hat would you use for covering the wounds? 
Mr. Gould. A good white lead paint. 

Mr. Eldon. Is not red lead better. It sticks much better 
than white lead. 

Mr. Gould. I am not familiar with it. The important point 
is to use something that will form a good covering. 

If we knew more about what is going on in the soil, we would 
doubtless frequently be in a better position to decide how to treat 
our trees. We can see the tops of our trees but their roots are hid- 




Fig. 9. The stub was left too 
long and has died. The wound 
can never heal. The stub will 
soon begin to decay and the limb 
become hollow thereb}-. 

den from us. Figures''' 5 and 6 are suggestive with regard to the 
root system of apple trees. Figure 5 indicates the mass of roots 
which comprise the root system of a 15-year-old apple tree, while 
Figure 6 gives an idea of their ramifications, the extent in this 
case being about 15 feet on one side of the tree and 18 feet on the 
other. It should be stated that these trees grew in eastern Colo- 
rado where the average annual rainfall is not over 16 or 17 inches. 
The moisture conditions may have had a marked influence in the 
formation of the root system. 

E. P. Garrettson. Would apple roots go as far as peach. 

Mr. Gould. Yes, farther. 

To make such a discussion as this complete of course it should 
include some reference to spraying but you have wisely provided 
for that as a subject by itself for discussion, hence it calls for no 
comments here, only to say that the developments in spray mix- 
tures during the past two or three years mark an advance in orchard 
practice which perhaps means more to the fruit industry than any- 

'^The photographs from which these illustrations were made were taken 
through the courtesy of the Colorado Experiment Station. — H. P. G. 



6o 




thing else that has occurred since the value of fungicides and insecti- 
cides became fully recognized. 

Another advance step which I believe will eventually be group- 
ed with cultivation, pruning, spraying, etc., as an orchard practice 
is orchard heating or smudging to prevent frost injury. Great 
interest has been developed in this connection, many kinds of ap- 
paratus have been devised as means of applying or generating the 
recjuisite heat and smoke. While the practice must still be regard- 
ed as in the experimental stage, material progress has been made 
towards perfecting devices. When we know more about the range 
of possibilities and methods of working, it will doubtless be pos- 
sible to formulate fairly definite plans of procedure. 

It is now time to say that the production of good fruit does not 
consist in the tillage of the orchard, as important as that may be, 
or in fertilizing the soil well, nor in pruning, spraying, smudging, 
etc. But it does consist, other things being ecj^ual, in all of these 
various operations properly timed and adjusted to each other. 
Each one has its relationships to all the others. A break at any 
point in these relationships and a poorer grade of fruit is the result. 

I am not supposed to say anything about the handling of fruit 
in the present connection, yet there is a pretty close connection be- 
tween the production of it and its handling. There are only one 
or two observations that I care to make about fruit handling, and 
they are based on some of the experiences of some of my co-work- 
ers in the Department of Agriculture who have been working in 
California in connection w^ith the fruit transportation and storage 
investigations of the Bureau of Plant Industry. 



6i 



Four or five years ago the losses due to the decay of oranges 
in transit from CaHfornia had reached such an enormous amount 
that it became alarming. The loss was variously estimated at 
from seven himdred and fifty thousand dollars to one million five 
hundred thousand dollars. The Bureau of Plant Industry of the 
Department of Agriculture undertook an investigation of the cause 
of this decay and the remedies. To make a long story, with manv 
details, short, the chief cause of the whole trouble lay in the me- 
chanical injuries which the fruit received while being handled be- 
tween the time it was taken from the tree and the time when it was 
packed ready for shipment. 




Fig. 6. Showing expanse of roots U5 feet one side and i8 feet the 
other side) of tree set deep in 1897. Tree 13 years old when dug. 



The solution of the problem has been largely a thorough re- 
organization of methods of handling with a view to reducing to a 
minimum the mechanical injuries to the fruit. ^ly reference to 
this matter is made because it touches upon one of the fimda- 
mentals of success. The careful handling of all fruit not intended 
for immediate consumption is a ''permanent issue" among fruit 
growers and others who may be concerned. A fruit is a living 
organism. It breathes ; it gives ofl: carbon dioxide ; it lives and dies 
and then decays. Any sort of treatment which in any Avay de- 
stroys or injures the cells of which a fruit is composed hastens its 
death and, by so much, induces decav. 

In some cases it has been demonstrated that the mere dropping 
of an orange no more than twenty inches onto a hard floor results 
in a very material increase in decay in comparison with other fruit 
handled in identically the same way save for the dropping. 



62 



Of course the handling of citrus fruit as such, does not inter- 
est you in any way but if you grasp the principle involved you will 
see that the matter of extreme care in handling is not one of im- 
portance merely with citrus fruits but that it holds good for all 
fruits. 

Now if in bringing my already too long discussion to a close 
there is one thing more than another that I wish to sav it is to 
refer very briefly to the matter of co-operation among fruit grow- 
ers. Almost every line of human effort is ahead of the farmer in 
having its co-operative organization for mutual welfare. From 
the Dagoes who attend to the street lights of our cities: from the 
Irish hod-carriers up to the most skilled artisans in the country, 
we find organizations that weld the members so that they can act 
as a unit and when one speaks it is the voice of authority for all. 
Among farmers, fruit growers are undoubtedly in the lead in this 
respect, but still there is relatively a small number of such organi- 
zations in comparison with their field of usefulness. 

Some of the advantages of co-operation among fruit growers 
may be enumerated as follows : 

(1) . All supplies, such as packages, tillage implements and 
other tools, spraying material, spray pumps, fertilizers, and all 
other kinds of materials or equipment can be bought by the asso- 
ciation in large quantities at wholesale rates and sold to the mem- 
bers practically at cost. 

(2) . The fruit being grown, picked, packed and handled in 
every way under the direction of the board of managers it is prac- 
tically uniform in quality. 

This makes it possible to standardize grades and to adopt 
brands that have a definite significance in the markets and an actual 
cash value in selling the fruit. It makes possible the building up 
of a reputation for a whole fruit section instead of for individual 
orchards as is generally the case otherwise. 

(3 ). It is possible through the association manager to keep 
in the closest touch with market conditions and hence take full ad- 
vantage of those conditions. The manager is usually the selling- 
agent ; hence the grower is relieved of the anxiet)^ of dealing with 
fruit buyers when his \\hole attention is needed in the preparation 
of his fruit for market. 

(4). Under these conditions quantity is not a factor in any 
individual orchard, as is often the case when a single grower must 
be able himself to ship in car lots. Quality becomes the aim. 
This makes possible small orchards or orchards of such size that 
the most intensive methods can be followed in the management of 
them. These are some of the more prominent functions of co- 
operative associations named wdthout regard to their relative im- 
portance. 

A very large proportion of the thirty thousand cars, more or 
less, of citrus fruits that are grown annually in California are 
handled by co-operative associations. Most of the fruit from Colo- 
rado, Oregon, Washington and other States of the Northwest is 
likewise so handled. You know something about the relative prices 



63 

of this fruit in eastern markets in comparison with the prices that 
prevail for most of the eastern grown fruit. You have the ad- 
vantage of the western growers in that they are so much further 
removed than you are from the large markets of the country. I 
doubt very much if the western fruit would reach the eastern mar- 
ket, at least not in large quantities, if it was not for the co-operation 
of the growers among themselves, working through their associa- 
tions. 

With the already important and the increasing fruit interests 
here in Adams county, I believe there is a grand opportunity for 
some very effective co-operation along the lines just mentioned. 
If such is the case, and you make the most of the situation, to- 
gether with your possibilities for the production of high grade fruit, 
why cannot the reputation of the Grand Valley of Colorado, the 
Hood River section of Oregon, the Yakima Valley section of Wash- 
ington, or of any other section be, in five years time and less, your 
reputation ? 




Ce;i,Ebrate;d Diagonal Pack. (Courtesy "Better Fruit".) 



64 




Fig. 10. Root of 5-3-ear-old Peach tree, 17 feet in length, spread of 
branches about 18 feet, 9 on either side. 



SELECTING VARIETIES. PREPARING THE LAND, AND 
PLANTING A COMMERCIAL APPLE ORCHARD. 



T. AxDREW CoHiLL. Manager Tonoloway O'-cliard Co., Hancock, 

Maryland. 



Mr. President, Ladies and GcntJcnien. — Your corre^picnding 
secretary has requested me to talk upon "'Selecting \'arieties. Pre- 
paring the Land, and Planting a Commercial Apple Orchard." an^l 
as representative of the Tonoloway Orchards of Hancock. r^Id.. it 
affords me the greatest of pleasure to meet and talk to s^:- nianv en- 
thusiastic fruit growers, and to find many among you liave se- 
lected the same vocation as myself, namely : the culture of the 
"Fruit of Eden" the apple. 

Apple culture is no longer a branch of agriculture where it 
long languished-; it has become the most important branch of scien- 
tific horticulture. As a result of the farmer's poor and neglectful 
methods, it is predicted that a few more years will see the total 
extinction of the small farm orchards as a business factor, and 
the survival only of commercial orchards, conducted according to 
modern horticultural methods. By this statement I mean only 
that the fruit grower, be he large or small, must use business and 
scientific methods in order to survive. 

It is a well-estabHslied fact that the greatest success of com- 
mercial apple-growing depends upon proper selection and the plant- 
ing of a few varieties only, taking into consideration not merelv the 
present, but the future as well. This is the day of commercial 



6s 



orchards, and the first important stop after you have selected your 
land is to select you varieties. The selection of varieties has called 
forth the most painstaking consideration of every feature of grow- 
ing and marketing by the best professional judgment of well quali- 
fied authorities and a close observation of actual results. The 
Agricultural Experiment Stations and horticultural authorities of 
the various states, as well as the Pomological Division of the U. S. 
Department of Agriculture at A\'ashington have for many years en- 
gaged upon the highly important work of recording results obtain- 
ed by difi'erent varieties of apples, in the various apple-growing 
sections, to determine the varieties best adapted to each locality. 
\\'e made several mistakes in planting our orchards and I consider 
the selection of varieties the most serious one we made. Do not 
plant every variety of apples that your nursery may have in stock, 
or that every Tom, Dick and Harry recommends, for you will 
never have a commercial orchard if you do, but study and learn 
the variety best suited for your soil, climate and markets. I would 
be just as careful in selecting a good nursery before buying young 
stock. Decide upon what varieties you want, and then write your 
nearest reliable nursery, asking if they can furnish the varieties 
desired, and at what price. State the number of trees of each 
variety wanted, the age, and specify definitely that, under no con- 
ditions, will diseased or insect-infected trees be accepted, nor will 
substitutions of varieties be countenanced. Save the bill of sale 
for future reference, for the "Court of Appeals" in New York 
State has decided that nurserymen may be sued for damages re- 
sulting from the substitution of varieties. Go to the nursery your- 
self and inspect the trees, and insist on getting the varieties you 
have selected. I prefer a well-grown, one-year-old budded tree. 
A one-year-old budded tree may be headed low, and the first 
branches may be used for the foundation branches, selecting those 
best placed. Furthermore, a one-year-old tree is cheaper than a 
two-year-old. 

The Tonoloway Orchard Co., of Hancock, ]\Id., of which I 
am ''field manager" of 350 acres, have 700 acres in apples or over 
50,000 apple trees. 

The following are the varieties planted : 



1. Yellow Transparent. 3,000 

2. Duchess of Oldenburg, 3oOO 

3. Wm. Earh- Red, 1,000 

4. Red Astrachan, 600 

5. Summer Rambo. 1,000 

6. ^IcTntosh 300 

7. Wealthy, 4,000 

8. Jonathan, 6.000 

9. Yellow Bellflower, i.ooo 

10. Grimes Golden, 7,000 

11. Winesap, 2.D00 

12. Stayman, 1,000 

13. Baldwin 4,000 

14. Ben Davis 3,ooo 

15. Rome Beauty, 1,000 

16. York Imperial, 12,000 



66 



These varieties number sixteen, and even taking into considera- 
tion the thousands of trees, and the large expanse of our orchards 
we feel that by cutting the varieties down to eight or ten, adding 
the number of trees on to them, the crop would be easier handled 
and the company would receive better returns on the whole. All 
sixteen of these varieties are of the best for a commercial orchard, 
and so I shall make my selection from these which would be in the 
order of ripening : 

Yellovv Transparent j .j Summer. 
Wm. Early Red ( 

Summer Rambo Late Summer. 

Wealthy ) 
Grimes Golden ]■ Fall 
Jonathan ) 

Stayman Winesap | 

Rome Beauty [ Winter. 

York hnperial j 

I think that all of these varieties are adapted to your soils. 
The Stayman Winesap that you grow over here are particularly 
fine. I have never seen any better Staymans anywhere. They 
are highly colored, fine in size, and the quality is excellent. 



Yellow Transparent is the first summer variety to ripen, and 
is without any doubt the earliest to bear fruit of any of our varie- 
ties. It even bears while in the nursery. Ours bore fruit the first 
year set out. We gave an order to the nurserymen for Yellow 
Transparent trees, and before they could be shipped to us, we re- 
ceived word from them to come down and pick our fruit. This 
variety is very profitable, but requires very careful handling. 



Williams' Early Red is a very beautiful, bright red apple. It 
is a favorite on the eastern markets for its season. Like the Yel- 
low Transparent and all early varieties, the skin is tender and easily 
bruised, and is, therefore, best handled in small packages. Under 
favorable conditions it becomes large and more than one picking 
is required to secure the fruit in prime condition. The prices we 
received for them were exceedingly good, and I would prefer 
A\^illiams' Early Red to all other varieties of that season. 

Question. How often did you have to go over your Yellow 
Transparent to get them right when picked? 

Mr. Cohill. We had to go over our Yellovv Transparents five 
or six times last year in order to get the frtiit in prime condition. 

W. C. Tyson. What package do you use for summer apples? 

Mr. Cohill. The five-eighths basket, but we are going to also 
try the box next year. We do not know how it will work out, but 
we shall give it a trial. 

Mr. Nevi^comer. Which do you find the more profitable, Yel- 
low Transparent or Williams' Early Red? 

Mr. Cohill. There is more money in the Williams' Early Red, 
although the Yellow Transparent is certainly good. The people seem 



67 

to demand a red apple, and we try n(3t to give the dealer a red apple 
until the Yellow are done, so do not ship both apples to same dealer. 

Mrs. Michener. Do the red apples show bruises as readily as 
the Yellow ? 

Mr. Cohill. Not quite. All early varieties must be handled 
exceeding!}' careful. 

Question. Do vou ship them in iced cars ? 

Mr. Cohill. Xot last year. \\> expressed them. Had not 
enough on account of uneven ripening; could not get carload lots. 

W. C. Tyson. Do you find them as profitable as winter 
apples ? 

Mr. Cohill. \\'e find them more so. I do not advise planting 
an orchard without some early varieties. 

Question. \A'hen does the Williams' Early Red come in^ 

Mr. Cohill. Just before or about the time the Yellow Trans- 
parent ha> gone out. 

Mr. Boyer. Are vou using the \Mlliams' Early Red as fillers? 

Mr. Cohill. Yes, we are. 

Mr. Newcomer. A\'hat is the form with the oIcIlt trees? 

Mr. Cohill. We find the voung trees very hardy and a prolific 
bearer. Have uot had any experience with older trees, as all ours 
are young. 

Question. AVhat is the form of the Yellow Transparent? 
Mr. Cohill. It is an upright grower, and is quite dilficult to 
prune. 

W. S. Adams. Is Baltimore your market ? 

Mr. Cohill. A\'e can sell earlv apples anywhere. We ship- 
ped most of ours to New York, but Baltimore is all right on early 
fruit. 



Summer Rambo. Is a verv productive, vigorous and healthy 
tree, producing a large apple with red stripes or red check. This 
variety is a quick seller, and can stand rougher treatment than the 
two previous varieties. It is a very attractive, brilliant red apple 
of excellent quality, a good keeper. 3'ields well, bears early and is 
profitable. 

Mr. Eldon. Do Summer Rambo bear early? 

Mr. Cohill. They bear early and I think you will find them 
profitable for the season. If you are not going to plant a large 
orchard. I would advise you not to get many Summer Rambo. 

Mr. Eldon. How often do you pick them? 

Mr. Cohill. A\'e only picked them once, but if you have any 
quantity it would probably be more profitable to pick them two or 
three times. 

Question. Are they as profitable as the earlier ones? 
Mr. Cohill. Xo, not for us. 

Mr. Eldon. Do they bear as early as the other varieties ? 
Mr. Cohill. X'o. not as early as the Yellow Transparent or 
Williams. 



68 



Grimes Golden is a standard favorite of wonderful popularity, 
juicy, spicy, and rich, a beautiful, transparent apple, golden yel- 
low, one of the best sellers on the market, comes into bearing early, 
yields, crops the fifth year, it is a late fall variety. Grimes Golden 
is, with us, the apple. It certainly is a fine apple, and a good 
yielder. We get fine crops from our young trees. Your soil is 
adapted to them, and I would advise you to plant Grimes Golden. 
We have between 7,000 and 10,000 eight-year-old Grimes, and have 
gotten three crops. Nearly all are bearing now. 



Jonathan. For many years has ranked as a standard of high 
quality ; originated from a Spitzenburg seedling. More valuable 
than the parent variety on account of early bearing, longer life and 
greater productiveness; medium size, a beautiful, brilliant red apple; 
highly flavored, rich, tender, and spicy, has good keeping qualities 
and yields abundant crops early. 

Question. How many did you have this year? 

Mr. Cohill. We had quite a lot of them. Could not say as 
to prices, but they were good. Jonathan and Grimes Golden brought 
the best prices this year. 

Mr. Frazer. Are Grimes Golden trees weak in any way? 

Mr. Cohill. Not ours ; we find them very healthy and strong. 

Question. How about working them on York Imperial? 

Mr. Cohill. Would be an advantage probably, as the Grimes 
is not considered a long-lived tree. 

Question. Would you advise working the Grimes on North- 
ern Spy? 

Mr. Cohill. I have not had enough experience to tell you. 

Stayman Winesap as a commercial variety is surpassed bv no 
other, and by some authorities is called the most successful apple 
grown; medium size, a beautiful dark, rich red, good eating quali- 
ties, as well as good keeper ; the fruit is far superior and the tree 
is much stronger than the original Winesap, long Hved, early bearer, 
good yielder, a later winter variety. 

Question. Do you notice a dift'erence in your Stayman? 

Mr. Cohill. No difference that I can see, only in size and 
color. The exhibit of Staymans by Tysons are the best I have 
ever seen. 



Rome Beauty. An established and highly profitable variety 
of good quality, size large, shaded with bright red, good keeping, 
a hardy and vigorous grower, and very reliable in its production. 
Tree bears early. 

Mr. Newcomer. How does the quality of Rome Beauty com- 
pare with Stayman? 

Mr. Cohill. The quality, I think, is much better ; it is one 
of the best in quality. It is practically like the Smoke House. 

Question. Does it bear heavily ? 

Mr. Cohill. Very heavily and early, too. It is recommended 
as a filler. 



69 



Mr. Newcomer. If you were planting a large orchard, would 
you use it? 

Mr. Cohill. Yes, we planted a great many and I should 
highly recommend it. 

Question. Do you find them more susceptible to diseases^ 
scale, etc. ? 

Mr. Cohill. Xo, they have been free from anything that would 
tend to injure them. We have no scale and no fungii to amount 
to anything. 

York Imperial. A popular and reliable variety, medium yel- 
low,, almost covered with bright heavy red, flesh firm, large in size, 
shape oblong. A large producer and fruit keeps well. It is a very 
profitable commercial apple, of which there is always a uniform 
demand, a late winter variety. You will not go wrong in planting 
York Imperial. 

Location for Apples. 

Secure rich, fertile land of a heavy character, high elevation, 
with plenty of air circulating, with good drainage. Avoid low 
lands, hollows and pockets. 

To Lay Off Land for Planting. 

First lay off a right angle in line with the slope of the land, 
so that in cultivating the tree rows will not be subjected to washing 
from excessive rains. Second measure and stake off the distance 
between each tree row at each end of the plot from top to bottom 
of the slope. Third start at first stake at bottom of slope, using a 
two-horse barshear plow, with poles as a guide, plow out the cen- 
ter, then throw out three furrows on each side of the center furrow. 

Selection of Trees. 

Be certain to purchase thrifty trees with good tops and roots 
that are grown by the nurseryman from whom purchased. Have 
the trees dug in the nursery just as soon as the leaves mature in the 
Fall, have them forwarded just as soon as dug. Go right to the 
nursery, help to load them on cars and stay right with the trees. 

Question. Can you tell the varieties in the nursery? 

Mr. Cohill. A man that is experienced in nursery work can 
tell it. Be careful not to plant anything like crown gall or aphis. 

E. P. Garrettson. Will not the crown gall appear in the trees 
a year or two after planting? 

Mr. Cohill. It will increase. 

Question. Have you seen it grow that way? 

Mr. Cohill. Yes, and we have lost some in that way. The 
crown gall increases until it kills the tree. Would not advise much 
pruning. If there are any long roots, clip them back so as to fit 
in the hole nicely. 

Mr. Myers. How about the roots which tend to go downward ? 

Mr. Cohill. ]\Iake the hole deep enough so as not to cut that 
root off. If a real long root, it might be cut off a few inches. 



70 

Immediately after arrival at your railroad station take them 
to the prospective orchard, this is very important. Do not allow 
trees to remain on station platform in wind and sun for a day or 
two and theii blame the nurseryman if they do not grow. 

Caring For Trees on Arrival at Orchard. 

At a central point in the area to be planted, select a well 
draired location to heel in the trees, so they Avill be convenient for 
planting. 

To heel trees, plough out a deep furrow forty to fifty feet in 
length, turning the earth down the hill, usii:g shovels to clean out 
furrow, ])utting loose earth on top of furrow just thrown up; this 
will make a slight ridge to support the body of your trees. Cut 
open bundles of trees spreading them out side b}- side, roots in the 
furrow with tops laid down horizontally against the earth thrown 
up, all tops lying in the same direction. Plough another furrow 
right over the roots, using shovels again to clean out the furrow 
for the next layer of trees, continue this process until all trees are 
packed awa}'. See that all roots are covered air tight at least 
twelve to thirteen inches above the bud, keep all varieties separate 
in sections, with each section labeled. 

Remove all sod, leaves, fodder, straw, boxes, etc., leaving no 
])lace for mice to nest, as mice are very destructive to the roots of 
voung trees. IMough a deep furrow around the upper side to drain 
out water. This leaves the trees in good shape for planting or 
should the weather interfere with planting, the trees are secure for 
the winter. 

For a Puddle Hole. 

Dig a hole in the ground about two feet deep, five feet long and 
two feet wide, convenient to the trees, put in the hole a barrel or 
two of water, also one hundred pounds of tobacco dust, stir thor- 
oughly, mixing clay, water and tobacco dust. \A'hile pruning drop 
the trees into this hole, roots downward, leaving them there until 
ready to plant: this will revive the trees and kill many injurious 
insects, should there be any on the roots of the trees. This is 
also a convenient place to keep the trees from drying out between 
the time of pruning and planting. 

Pruning. 

Prune off all broken roots, also cut out all crowding and inter- 
locking roots. 

Now We Are Ready For Planting. 

We have a boy fourteen to sixteen years old to carrv the trees 
from point where they are heeled in, to men planting, dropping 
each tree at a i)oint where the wire crosses tree row to be planted. 
Take enough Xo. 12 galvanized wire to make two lengths from 
bottom 'of slope to top. Use a reel on which wind wire at foot of 



71 



slope. ^Measure off twenty feet for a border from starting point 
at top and bottom, this will leave room at the end of yonr orchard 
to turn teams in cultivating, etc. Stretch out one of the wires for 
vour first row. next measure olt the distance you wish the tree 
rows apart and stretch the other wire ; this will be your second 
row. \\ e use two men at each end of the wire and four men at 
the center, using the wire to plant by. The men work in couples. 
The two men at ends work towards the center, the two couples at 
the center work in opposite directions, until they meet the men 
coming from the ends, then they all move over to the other wire and 
work back to their starting places ; then both wires are carried for- 
ward to their proper positions and the work goes right on. 

Question. How long is the wire? 

Mr. Cohill. One- fourth mile in length. 

Question. How do you move it? 

Mr. Cohill. Have men scattered along. Each has a certain 
section to work in. All have the same number of trees to put in. 

W. C. Tyson. How do you stretch that wire ? 

Mr. Cohill. A\'e have a reel at the foot of the slope and stretch 
it as tight as we can get it, with bar and brace. Dig the hole at 
the same time the tree is planted and make it large enough to ac- 
commodate the tree. 

Trees should be planted at least two inches deeper than they 
were in the nursery and on steep slopes four inches deeper than 
they were in the nursery. Holes must be dug to accommodate 
the tree in hand so that roots can be spread out and not touch the 
sides of the holes ; the subsoil must be thrown to one side replacing 
two to four inches of good rich soil in the bottom of the hole. One 
man takes the tree, spreads the roots out with one hand, and the 
other man with the shovel throws in a shovel full or two of good 
mellow rich soil, then scatters about a half pound of tobacco dust 
and bone meal in a hole on top of first two shovel fulls of soil. 
At the same time the man with the tree in his hand takes the other 
hand to work the soil between the roots thoroughly ; this done, one 
man fills the hole while the other tramps the earth solid with his 
feet as each shovel full is thrown in. When finished a man cannot 
pull a tree up with one hand, and if it can be pulled up with one 
hand we do not consider the tree properly ])lanted. 

Under this system we have planted twelve hundred trees per 
day. The average will probably be one thousar.d trees per day, and 
99^ per cent, of them grow. 

A\'e have found it dangerous to plant trees when the soil is 
dried out. We prefer to plant apple trees in the Fall of the year 
just as early as possible after the leaves have fallen from the trees 
or any time during the winter or early spring when not freezing. 



72 




Yellow Traksparent. 
One of the best of Earh' Summer Apples. Note the heav}' load of fruit. 

SOME COMMENTS ABOUT IMPORTANT APPLE 
VARIETIES. 



H. P. Gould, U. S. Dcpartiiiciif of Agriculture. 



In the many lines of progress that have occurred in the rapid 
development of the fruit industr}- in recent years, there have been 
none greater than the changed conceptions regarding the variety 
in its relation to successful fruit culture. 

Though for many years following the formation of the Ameri- 
can Pomological Society about the middle of the last century, its 
most conspicuous work was along tlie line of variety adaptation, 
its influence was apparently somewhat restricted — much more so 
than in more recent years — and apparently not largely felt by the 
mass of those who were planting fruit trees. 

In the earlv days, the fact that a variety was pleasing when 
grown in a particular place was taken as prima facie evidence in 
great numbers of instances that it would be equally as desirable a 
hundred or a thousand miles distant where the environment was 
entirely different. Xot so at the present time ! There is nothing 



73 



more conspicuous to the discerning fruit grower and nothing more 
interesting than the great variabiHty of varieties in their response 
to the influence of environment, for we have come to think of a 
variety, not as an entity in itself but of a plastic thing which is the 
product of the influences under which it is grown. 

It is worth while in this connection to ask : ''What are the 
influences which affect the behavior of a variety, making it valuable 
in one place and perhaps worthless in some other?" In other words, 
what constitutes the environment which determines whether a va- 
riety inherently meritorious, is good or bad in a particular place? 
In the last analysis, the two great determinants or limiting factors 
for all plant life, and to a considerable extent also of animal life, 
are temperature and moisture. In the case of cultivated plants 
we must also add the soil factor and methods of culture. It may be 
doctrinal heresy to admit it but personally, I put less stress within 
certain rather broad limits upon the soil factor than upon any of 
the others that are really dominant in any particular. And for 
the tree fruits I place greater importance upon the character of the 
subsoil than upon the surface soil. 

To give satisfactory results with any variety of fruit, a soil 
must have certain characteristics. It must contain sufficient plant 
food in an available form to induce a good vigorous growth of 
wood. In other words, it must be sufficiently fertile for the end 
in view. To this end it must contain humus or decaying vegetable 
matter in considerable quantities. A soil deficient in humus, more 
or less broadly speaking, is an unproductive or non- fertile soil. 
It must be a soil that is sufficiently porous and light to permit water 
to percolate through it readily. Such a soil as this will also be 
easily penetrated by the roots. These last two tenets apply par- 
ticularly to the subsoil. 

I place so much importance upon the subsoil because it is that 
very largely in which the roots are imbedded. It is the subsoil 
very largely that acts as a reservoir for the moisture supply re- 
quired by the trees. If it is too compact and hard the moisture 
does not pass through it with sufficient freedom, either up or down, 
and the roots find too much obstruction to readily penetrate it 
for food and moisture. Given these characteristics and a soil so 
far as the soil factor itself is concerned may be looked upon as 
having the requisites for fruit growing. 

And now that I am referring to this soil factor, I want to 
mention one other feature. It may be that each fruit variety re- 
quires for maximum results its own particular type of soil but I 
question if we can recognize this from any practical standpoint, on 
the basis of the soil itself, to the extent that is sometimes assumed. 
The soil performs three functions in relation to a tree growing in 
it: (3.) It serves as a means of holding the tree upright and in 
place; fb) it is the source of mineral plant food either contained in 
it naturally or applied by the act of man; (c) it serves as the direct 
source from which the tree gets its supply of moisture. A soil may 
be too light in one extreme or too heavy in the opposite extreme. 



74 



as we ordinarily use these terms, to come within the broad hmits 
impHed in the outset. 

There is a most intimate relationship between the moisture 
supply and the mineral food supply because the latter is available 
for the use of the tree only as it goes into solution in the water or 
moisture that is in in the soil. 

Again, as soils of different types and in different conditions 
may have different temperatures, there may be a temperature fac- 
tor involved in the relation of a particular soil to the behavior of 
a variety. 

Now suppose we thini< we have found for a particular variety 
the exact type of soil both with regard to its physical condition, its 
relation to the supply of plant food, moisture and temperature for 
maximum results in every respect. Very well ! Hut the very next 
season after we have reached our conclusions it may be abnormally 
rainy, or abnormally dry or excessively hot or cold as the case 
may be. We at once have ever}^ factor in our scheme thrown out 
of adjustment and the relationships of food supply, moisture and 
temperature are entirely disturbed. As a result we find our chosen 
variety giving maximum results perhaps on an entirely different 
type of soil from the one we have previously had under considera- 
tion, even though that type remains unchanged as a type. 

Then, too, we have a variety growing on a particular type 
of soil and giving certain results under some definite system of 
soil culture and orchard management. We change our system of 
management and totally different results follow. Yet the soil, as 
a type remains the same. The thing I want to impress upon you 
is simply this : Granting for the sake of the argument the possi- 
bility of there being varietal preferences as to soil types within the 
broad limitations already specified, the soil influences so far as 
they affect the behavior of a variety are constantly at ^\'ork con- 
jointly with all the other influences which go to make up the 
environment — and a variety is largely the product of its environ- 
ment. It therefore follows that when we consider the matter of 
varietal adaptability we must consider it in the light of all the in- 
fluences that affect its behavior in any way. A variety may be of 
value or it may not be, depending upon the conditions under which 
it is grown, and the better we understand those conditions, the 
more nearly can we make them what we want them to be. 

There are various other phases of this matter I should like to 
discwss but I am already too far from the point of my subject. 
Time forbids that I wander farther away, except to say that we 
are in the habit of looking upon many things as pertaining to the 
soil in its relation to fruit growing that are not soil factors at all. 
A soil that is too moist may need draining but that is a matter of 
drainage, not of soils, per sc ; or too much moisture may be the 
result of too much rain and that is a matter of climate, not of soils ; 
a lack of moisture, or of plant food or of humus to modify the 
physical condition — these have to do with soil management, not 
with soil types and soil characteristics. But we sometimes charge 
them all up to the soil I Methods of culture and of orchard man- 



75 



agement are fundamental in their influence upon the adaptabihty 
and relative value of a variety. Herein lies the phenomenal suc- 
cess of one fruit grower and the flat failure of another when per- 
haps the natural advantages outside the nature of the men involved 
are the same in both cases. Herein the grower displays his dis- 
crimination as to the peculiar needs and requirements of each 
variety and his ability to meet those requirements — for not all 
varieties can be treated the same way with ec|ual success in every 
case. And it is in the management of an orchard that soil condi- 
tions are properly maintained and ameliorated as the case may re- 
quire. 

To return briefly to the temperature and moisture factors. 
This brings us back to a consideration of the climate in its efl^ect 
upon varieties — for temperature and moisture are two conspicuous 
elements of climate in relation to plant life. With a low tempera- 
ture, and as a result moisture largely in the form of ice and snow, 
the typical vegetation is moss, stunted evergreens and other growth 
which characterize the Arctic regions. Given a higher temperature 
and much of the moisture in the form of rain and \\'e have the 
mixed, varied and abundant vegetation common to the greater part 
of the United States. A high temperature and the absence of rain 
and the Sahara and the Great American deserts appear. A maxi- 
mum in both temperature and rainfall and the luxuriant vegetation 
of the tropics is a result. Thus you will see the part played by 
these two limiting factors — temperature and moisture. To say 
that each variety of apple or peach or strawberry requires for 
maximum results its own particular degree of temperature and its 
own definite supply of moisture at particular periods or epochs in 
its seasonal life — difl:'erent from every other variety — may be 
going farther than we have any right to go at this time, yet from 
an extreme point of view I think this is theoretically true. Practi- 
cally, the discriminations ma}- be too minute to be of any real im- 
portance in most cases. Yet we know that some varieties will suc- 
cessfully withsand adverse climatic conditions which will utterly 
destroy others : so after all. there may be more in my proposition 
than we can now fully comprehend. 

Rut climate in its effect upon plant life — and upon fruit varie- 
ties — is a complex matter. There is more to climate than tempera- 
ture and moisture even though we sometimes overlook the fact that 
this is so. 

In naming the dift'erent elements of climate we would need 
to mention : 

1. Precipitation Train and snow). 

2. Temperature. 

3. Extremes of heat and cold. 

4. Times and frequency of frost. 

5. Amount and intensity of sunshine. 

6. Humidity and transparency of the atmosphere. 

7. Direction and velocity of wind. 

8. And perhaps the electrification of the atmosphere. 



76 



A\'e can readily understand that some of these at least in addi- 
tion to temperature and moisture have a very close relationship to 
the behavior and value of dillerent varieties. 

Another very important matter in the adaptability of varieties 
is the location and site selected for the orchard. There are count- 
less orchards throughout the country that are practically worthless 
because of their location. But when we stop to consider the sig- 
nificance of the location we find that it is mostly local climate. 
It has to do with frosts, and air drainage which are temperature 
factors ; with soil drainage which is a moisture factor ; and with 
A\inds, etc. So here again we come back to the climate. We must 
consider the climate in its several elements at every turn. 

But I have not forgotten that my subject calls for some com- 
ments about apple varieties. Perhaps, though. I need make no 
apologies for the background I have endeavored to set up. Per- 
haps any remarks about the adaptability of varieties that may 
follow will have greater significance than would otherwise be the 
case because of the ''setting'' which I have tried to place for them. 

Even now before I reach the part of this discussion which 
gives my paper its title, I want to ask your forbearance a little 
further. I have recently been very much interested myself in mak- 
ing a sort of inventory of the apple varieties that have entered into 
American pomology. A portion of this inventory may not be with- 
out some interest to you because of its connection with your state. 

About six years ago there was published a bulletin by the 
United States Department of Agriculture, in the Bureau of Plant 
Industry series, entitled : ''Nomenclature of the Apple : A 
catalog of the known varieties referred to in American Publica- 
tions from 1804 to 1904." You will at once see the comprehensive 
character of this bulletin. The year 1804 was taken as the start- 
ing point because that is the year in which the first list of apple 
varieties grown in America was published. It therefore marks 
the beginning of American catalogs of varieties. The work of 
compiling the data for the bulletin mentioned was completed in 
1904, thus making the period covered by it an even hundred years. 
The American publications reviewed for the data, included the 
standard pomological books, horticultural societ}^ reports, experi- 
ment station bulletins and reports, horticultural papers and maga- 
zines, etc. 

The catalog contains all known names of varieties that had 
been published up to and including the year 1904 and approximates 
14,800 in number. This includes all synonyms as well as accredited 
varietal names. Of the latter there are about 6,700 in number. 
This means of course that there has been that number of dift'erent 
varieties referred to by name in American publications in the hun- 
dred years that is covered by this catalog. A bit of arithmetic 
shows 8,100 synonyms, thus giving as an average more than two 
names apiece for every variety, but as several varieties have over 
forty different synonyms to their credit and others only a slightly 
smaller number, the distribution of names is not on a very equit- 
able basis. 



77 



These totals do not include the crabs. If they are added to 
this inventory the number of accredited names is increased by about 
375. making in all 7,075. Two hundred and seventy-five names are 
added to the synonyms making 8,375, ^^^^^^ bringing up the total 
number of published names, including synonyms, to about 15,400. 

Of the approximately 6,700 (not including the crabs) accredit- 
ed varietal names, the origin of about 3,900 varieties is known with 
more or less certainty and designated in the bulletin mentioned by 
state for the native varieties and by the country for the introduced 
or foreign sorts. Of these 3,900 varieties, the origin of which is 
designated 309 if my account is correct, are accredited to Pennsyl- 
vania though in case of 42 of these — a rather large percentage to 
be sure — there is some cjuestion as to their being of Pennsylvania 
origin. 

Of course a large proportion of the 6,700 varieties in the cata- 
log, are now unknown in cultivation. This is made evident by the 
last revision of the American Pomological Society's "recommended 
lists" of varieties for cultivation in the various sections of the 
United States and Canada. This revision was published in June, 
1QC9, as Bulletin 151 in the Bureau of Plant Industry series. 
The list^of recommended varieties of apples contains 319 names of 
varieties which have been recommended by some fruit grower, 
professional pomologists, or others capable of giving advice in the 
matter for planting in some section of the country. The infer- 
ence is then that a little more than 300 varieties include all, or at 
least nearly all, (not counting local sorts many of which are valu- 
able ) , of the really important sorts that are being grown at the 
present time. In fact it would be surprising if this number could 
not be greatly reduced without loss to the apple industry. Penn- 
sylvania is credited with seventeen of these 319 sorts as place of 
origin with three additional ones that are doubtful in this respect. 
Forty-nine of the 319 are of foreign origin including twenty-four 
Russian sorts and several which originated in Canada. 

With so long a list of varieties from which to choose, there is 
some difficulty in deciding just what ones should be named in the 
present connection. As a foundation for a list it is of interest to 
refer to the revised catalog of recommended varieties of the Ameri- 
can Pomological Society above mentioned. For the district that 
includes this region, the following varieties are the ones highly 
recommended : Benoni, Early Plarvest, Gravenstein, Grimes, 
^faiden Blush, ^Margaret, Red Astrachan, Rome Beauty, Smoke- 
house, Stayman Winesap, Wealthy, Winesap, Yellow Transparent, 
and York Imperial — fourteen varieties. But Adams county is very 
near the border line between two of the districts defined by the 
American Pomological Society. As the boundary limits of these 
districts are more or less arbitrary it may be of interest to note the 
highly recommended varieties in the adjoining district. In addi- 
tion to the above named sorts, they are as follo\\'s : Arkansas 
(Alammoth Black Twig) Ben Davis, Bough (Sweet Bough), Bun- 
combe, Chenango, Gano, Golden Sweet, Horse, Ingram, Jefferis, 
Jonathan, Limbertwig, ^^lissouri, Oldenburg (Duchess of Olden- 



-8 



biirg- ). Ralls, Ranilx). Red Tune, Red Stripe. AMiite Pippin. This 
increases the list by nineteen varieties — a total of thirty-three va- 
rieties conibining the two lists. 

Of the well tested commercial varieties this combined list con- 
tains some of the most valuable -ort:; suitable for planting in tne 
middle latitudes — material for some very choice selections. 

.■\nd a'lded comment about the more important of these varie- 
ties will -erve to indicate their predominant characteristics. Benoni 
is a beautiful little a])ple of high quality ripening in this section 
the latter ])art of Augu>t : too small for commercial purposes but 
excellent for home use. Early Harvest. Red Astrachan. ^laiden 
lUush and Gravenstein are standard early sorts probably too well 
known to require comment. Red Astrachan has a lot of faults 
but as an earl}- variety, red in color. I know of nothing to take 
its place. For a hr<t early variety Yellow Transparent has attain- 
ed front rank ]3retty nearl}- all over the country. The tree some- 
times bligiit< but it i- vet}- valuable for all of that. Smokehouse 
and A'ealthy are early fall — probably September varieties here — of 
nuTch intrinsic merit and for their season it is doubtful if there are 
anv better for this section. Grimes and Jonathan are used as 
"running mates" in man}- -ections and are of first importance. 
There are few varietie- grnwn commercially that are so high in 
dessert quality as these. Excellent sorts they are. on which to 
make a reputation that will be a distinct market asset. Grimes 
scalds in storage too badlv to be very satisfactory for that purpose, 
but as a fall sort it has fev equals. 

C. T. Tyson. Doe> Grimes scald early in storage? 

Mr. Gould. I am inclined to think so. 1 saw some in AA'ash- 
ington a few days ago, from -torage. that were very badly scalded. 

R. M. Eldon. Do }-ou think they should be picked a little 
greener : 

Mr. Gould. It is a question if they should not be picked a 
little riper than is customarily done. That is the case with the 
York Imperial. The more highly colored you can get that variety 
the le^s it will scald. 

Grimes Golden is one of the four varieties that the}- grow y<ul 
in Grand A^alley of Colorado, the others being" Jonathan, A\'ine-ap 
and Rome Beauty. They have found, in recent vears. that these 
four varieties are giving the greatest degree of satisfaction. 

Question. I^ that Stayman Wdnesap? 

Mr. Gould. Xo, the common AMnesap. Thev are planting 
Stayman a little but not very extensively yet. These varieties are 
giving great satisfaction there, so they do not have the inducement 
to plant other varieties that might otherwise be the case. 

Jonathan, normally of about the same season as Grimes is an 
excellent storage variety and in some sections it is one of the three 
or four most important commercial varieties. It has a wide range of 
adaptability. and is being extensively planted. AMiile it might be un- 
wise to plant it extensiveh' in Adams count\- withoiu more i^relimi- 
nary tests, I am impressed with the probability of its value. I think 



79 



there can be little doubt about the value of Grimes for your con- 
ditior.s when properly handled. 

Looking at the exhibits here and talking as I have with your 
people, makes me more firmly convinced that Rome Beauty and 
Stavman AMnesap are two of the most important varieties that can 
be grown here, unless they develop some faults here which I know 
nothing about. Stayman sometimes lacks a little in color especially 
on young trees but as they obtain a little age, this difficulty largely 
disappears. Rome Beauty may have some defects peculiar to this 
section which I do not know about but a short time ago one of 
the finest specimens of this variety that I have seen in a long time 
reached our office in \A'ashington from Biglerville. this county. 

AA'inesap. though it is a magnificent variety in Xew Jersey 
within a radius of twentv miles of Philadelphia, niay approach its 
northern limit of adaptability in this section on account of the 
elevation, though I am not sure but that it is entirely satisfactory 
here. 

York Imperial is too well ensconced in the hearts of the fruit 
growers of this section to call for any comment though it is a little 
lacking in dessert quality. 

I have now referred to all of the sorts mentioned in the first list 
of recommended varieties, also Jonathan of the second list because of 
its value in conection with Grimes. The varieties recommended for 
the adjoining district cover conditions that are very diverse from 
those in the district in which Adams county occurs. Therefore a 
considerable proportion of them are not to be considered in the 
present connection. Several of them, however, may well be re- 
ferred to briefly for the purpose of pointing out their faults as well 
as to indicate their merits. 

Arkansas, more widely known under its synonym, ]\Iammoth 
Black Twig, is an excellent apple of the Winesap type and has a 
magnificent tree but it is generally such a shy bearer that it is un- 
wise to include it in a commercial orchard, except in a ver}^ few 
localities. 

Ben Davis I had intended to pass over in silence but a few 
days ago I noticed in a report of the proceedings of the American 
Pomological Society, pul^lished nearly fifty years ago where John 
A. A\'arder, one of the most conspicuous pomological geniuses this 
country has yet seen, recommended it to that Society with the re- 
mark that he did not wish to say much about it but that he believed 
"It is a variety that will yet make a noise in the world." How 
true this prophesy has been made into history ! 

S\veet Bough is \videly grown in this general region of the 
country for an earlv sweet sort. JefTeris for late summer or early 
fall has decided merit. It is of Pennsylvania origin and doubtless 
deserves a greater popularity than it now has. Oldenburg (Duch- 
ess of Oldenburg) for a second early apple would probably be suc- 
cessful, though its quality is not high, and its value is entirely for 
culinary purposes. 

Question. Can we get anything to take its place ? 



8o 



Mr. Gould. Williams Early Red will come nearer it than any- 
thing else I know. 

Ingram, which originated in Missouri, a probable seedling of 
Ralls, is valuable in some sections because of its lateness in ripen- 
ing and its long keeping qualities. It is a late blossoming sort and 
because of this fact is sometimes bears a crop of fruit when other 
varieties are destroyed by late spring frosts. I am not aware, 
however, that it has been tested in this section. It ought to be 
tried here for a long keeping sort. Ranibo is a Pennsylvania stand- 
by which has much to commend it for its season though apparently 
it was relatively more popular formerly than it is now. White 
Pippin has a wide range of adaptability as we find it doing finely 
in Maine, in Maryland, Missouri and Kansas to say the least, and 
I do not know how much more widely it is scattered but under the 
diversified conditions in the regions indicated, it seems practically 
certain that it would do well here. It has been mistaken sometimes 
for Yellow Newton or Albemarle Pippin, though its dififerences are 
well marked to the critical eye. I have not seen it from Pennsyl- 
vania but think it is worthy of consideration for this section. 

The other varieties recommended in the second list are not 
sorts that I should care to commend to you for this section so will 
not take the time to refer further to them. 

In addition to these varieties there are several others that are 
important sorts elsewhere but do not appear to have attracted at- 
tention in any part of this State. I refer to Early Ripe which is 
an early variety of increasing importance in the early apple industry 
of Delaware and New Jersey, that ripens nearly with Yellow 
Transparent. In Delaware they sometimes pick before it is matur- 
ed. It is a remarkable apple It holds to the tree well after it is 
matured and may be picked when quite green. 

Williams likewise is a very valuable early sort in the states 
just mentioned. It has sometimes been confused, however, in at 
least one nursery in this state with Sops-of-Wine, a very different 
apple, the latter being sold as Williams Favorite which is also a 
synonym of Williams. Cornell (Cornell Fancy) is another second 
early sort, commonly credited to Pennsylvania — the southeastern 
part of the state — for its place of origin. It is a very desirable 
variety of high quality and I believe might with profit be given a 
much more prominent place in this section than it is accorded. 

Thaler should perhaps also be mentioned in this connection. 
This is a Russian variety and nearly or quite indistinguishable from 
Yellow Transparent in fruit but the tree is said to be more vigor- 
ous than Yellow Transparent. It is very rarely grown, at least not 
under that name. It may be confused with Yellow Transparent in 
some cases. 

In some parts of your state, Wagener is popular though in- 
clined to overbear. For a winter apple, however, it may have merit 
for your conditions, It is of good quality; frequently recommend- 
ed to be used as a filler because of its early bearing and rather 
small size of the tree. 



8i 

Another variety, one which has been attracting considerable 
attention in Virginia for the past few years is Lowry. It originated 
in Xelson county, Mrginia. a good many years ago, but it is only 
recently that it has become prominent. It is a beautiful red or 
indistinctly striped apple of good size — a good keeper and prolific. 
But like all the rest of its kind it has a weak spot. It is not quite 
good enough in dessert quality, still it is fair in this respect. I 
do not know of its haying been grown north of A^irginia but men- 
tion it to call your attention to its possible value here. 

Now if a grower was selecting varieties to plant for a suc- 
cession of ripening from early to late from the varieties already 
mentioned, he would not want all of them unless he was under- 
taking to plant a variety test orchard. Individuahty of choice 
would have a considerable range. I\Iy particular selection w ould be 
no better than that which any one else might make but if I were 
planting a commercial orchard in this section to include a full 
sequence of ripening, I think my choice, in the light of my present 
knowledge would be about as follows : Yellow Transparent (or 
Thaler), Early Ripe, Red Astrachan, AA'illiams, Cornell, Alaiden 
Blush, Gravenstein. AA'ealthy, Smokehouse, Grimes, Jonathan, 
Stayman \Mnesap, Rome Beauty and perhaps York Imperial. If 
I could find something to substitute for Red Astrachan I would do 
it but I know of no red variety at present that will take its place. 
And if I could handle to ad\antage more mid-season sorts I should 
want to add Jefiferis and Summer Rambo because of their merit. 

Question. ^Vould you advise that many varieties for a com- 
mercial orchard ? 

Mr. Gould. Yes, if you want a succession of ripening to ship 
all the time, from the earliest ripening varieties to the winter sorts ; 
but otherwise, a much smaller number of varieties would be ad- 
visable. 

This selected list is rather short on winter varieties. If I 
should find that Winesap warranted it, I would add it to my col- 
lection. And Stark would be an acquisition here if it will do as 
well as it does in some sections of this state. Ordinarily it is rather 
coarse-grained, not particularly attractive in color and rather in- 
dififerent in quality. But we recently received at our office in 
Washington specimens of this variety from this state (Landisburg 
or \\ aynesburg) that were exceptionally fine — very attractively 
colored, a beautiful finish and remarkably good in quality for the 
variety. If such fruit could be duplicated here, this would surely 
be an excellent variety to plant. 

C. J. Tyson. What reason would you have for recommend- 
ing it where Stayman \Mnesap could be grown? 

Mr. Gould. Xot any, unless yon wanted it to interplant for 
cross-pollination. It would not be wise to plant any variety with- 
out some other sort for cross-pollination. So far as a profitable 
commercial apple is concerned, I do not think it would come up to 
Stayman Winesap. 

C. J. Tyson. How about Paragon? 



82 



Mr. Gouid. Paragon is too much like Arkansas, in that it is 
generally a very shy bearer. The fruit is also very much like 
Arkansas in every respect. It is very dilTicult to tell them apart. 

Mr. Newcomer. How about Akin? 

Mr. Gould. I do not know anything in particular about that 
apple. It is an unknown possibility for this section. It is a very 
pretty apple, red in color and good quality. I never have seen it 
from this section and do not know how it would be here. 

C. J. Tyson. How about Magnate to replace Stark? 

Mr. Gould. It is too early. It ripens earlier than Jonathan 
does. A very excellent apple where it is well adapted. 

W. C. Tyson. What do you know of Ewalt? 

Mr. Gould. It is one of the old ai)ples that has been grown 
over a large section of the country. A pretty good variety, but I 
think there are enough other varieties as good, or better. 

W. C. Tyson. It is largely grown in Bedford county, and 
they regard it out there very higlily as a market apple. 

Mr. Cohill. How about Alaiden's Blush? 

Mr. Gould. I have already mentioned that variety in connec- 
tion with several other widely grown and generally valuable, early 
sorts. 

Sutton Beauty would be a consideration to add to the winter 
season. I do not know of this variety anywhere in this state but 
in New York it has been planted more or less in recent years and 
it is apparentlv growing in popularity in that state. It of course 
does not follow that it would be of value in this section but its 
possibilities are worth consideration. 

Lankford, a Delaware seedling that originated nearly 70 years 
ago has become quite widely disseminated though it is not exten- 
sively grown. It may have some possibilities as a winter variety 
for this section. 

With these other winter varieties I have mentioned, if I could 
find evidence that they were well adapted to my location, I should 
be inclined to drop York Imperial from my list as it isn't quite good 
enough in cjuality to conform to my standards and add one or more 
of these other sorts. I know that is a good deal like throwing a 
bomb and I may be slandering your most profitable variety. The 
fact still remains, however, that it does not rank very high in 
quality. 

We might go on in this way almost indefinitely but time for- 
l^ids anything further than to enumerate some of the varieties that 
are now attracting attention which have unknown possibilities for 
this section but which are worth testing. Perhaps in such an 
enumeration Delicious should head the list because of its widely 
advertised qualities and its recognized merit under suitable condi- 
tions. King David is its counterpart. Oliver Red under the name 
Senator has also been considerably advertised and planted but the 
tree is too susceptible to disease to recommend it. Likewise Col- 
lins Red has been disseminated widely under the name Chaiiipion 
and while this is productive and beautiful in appearance, it is too 
poor in quality to commend it to discriminating planters. The last 



83 



three sorts mentioned are chance seedHngs from northwest Arkan- 
sas. 

Addmg stiU others to this category, there is Akin from Ihi- 
nois. Bloomfield from ^Maryland. Doctor inchided in the first hst 
of "apples most commonly cultivated" that was published in this 
country, though still unknown to most fruit growers, A'irginia, 
Beauty from sotithwestern A irginia : Carson from northern 
Ohio ; the ^Magnate which originated apparently from the same 
collection of AA'inesap seeds that produced Stayman \Mne- 
sap from eastern Kansas : Ensee from southern Ohio ; Florence, 
an apple somewhat similar to Jonathan having a fine virogous 
tree but less desirable in dessert quality than Jonathan from 
northwest Arkansas ; ^Mother perhaps now a century old, coming 
originally from ^Massachusetts, but still largely unknown ; Coffman 
an early sort of much promise from Tennessee: Celestia. another 
sort from Ohio: Ramsdell fRamsdell Sweet) referred doubtfully 
to Connecticut for its origin: Adams, a long keeping variety of the 
Rambo type and of good quality from Blair county. Pa. All these, 
and almost an endless number besides are worthy of some very 
definite consideration by those of yoti who are seeking a reputation 
for the production of apples of strictly high grade as to quality and 
beauty of appearance. 

And still we need others. Of this collection, not one is per- 
fect; not one that does not have some fault or objectionable feature 
of some kind either in fruit or tree. 

Following tip the history of nearlv all of oiu" most valuable 
and best known varieties, we find where we can trace them to their 
origin that they came into being in most cases as chance seedlings, 
without the aid or intervention in any way of man. 

.In this connection it may not be inconsistent for me to repeat 
what ^Marshall P. AA'ilder as President of the American Pomologi- 
cal Society said repeatedly 50 years and more ago: "It was my 
first, so shall it be my continual and last advice : "Plant the most 
mature and perfect seed of the most hardy, vigorous and valuable 
varieties ; and as a shorter process, insuring more certain and happy 
results, cross, or hybridize your best fruits.' " This advice I wish 
was being more commonly followed to-da}'. If "chance" has ac- 
complished so much in the past in producing apple varieties, what 
are the possibilities in the production of varieties in the future, 
should all the knowledge of the present time regarding plant breed- 
ing and heredity be directed to this end? 




FiGTjKE 10— GR.\DING BOARD 




Packing Table in General Use. 
(Courtesy Better Fruit.) 

GENERAL ORCHARD MANAGEMENT. 



Samuel Frazer, OrcJiardisf, Geiicsco, X. Y. 



In discussing this question of General Orchard ^lanagement 
it may be wise to first relate the story of the beginning of our young 
orchards. These were planted nearly four years ago. At that 
time I had the idea that the best thing for me to do would be to 
top work most of the trees to the varieties I intended to grow. I 
did not top work everything, but planted some varieties as they 
came direct from the nursery in order to have them as checks. I 
may say at the outset that I am not in favor of the top-working 
and have been forced to this conclusion bv mv own results. It ma}^ 
be that as time goes on I shall see reason to change my mind. 
Thus far I am not prepared to advise it. 

\Ye have something like 150 acres of apples, the permanent 
varieties being Baldwin, Greening and Northern Spy. There are 
but 10 acres of bearing trees on the farm; among these we found 
3 Greening, 3 Baldwin and 3 Spv trees which appeared to be better 
than the others, and almost all of the Avood we needed for top- 
working was taken from these trees. In order to have a complete 
check on the method I top-worked six rows of Greening with 
scions taken from an ordinary nurserv. I mav sav here that these 
do not show the same tvpe of foliage that we find on our own 
trees. We can detect individual difi:"erences in trees, and we know 
that in some cases these are transmitted. 

Wq began bv planting our trees in the sprine with the idea of 
budding them in the fall. A few which were planted the fall previ- 
ous were grafted in the spring in the limbs, and we secured about 
80 per cent, stand of the grafts put in. At the time of budding 
we had a small epidemic of fire blight. The nurservman had con- 
tracted to chang^e the tops of the trees as I desired, therefore, he 
had to do the budding and g^rafting; and although. I told his man 
I did not want him to try to bud any trees which showed fire blight. 



85 



he would persist in takino- the chance of putting a bud in and 
going several inches below the seat of infection. In most of such 
instances he managed to get the knife covered with the bacteria 
from the diseased tree and he would inoculate the succeeding ten 
trees ; and, since we were putting in four buds, one on each side of 
the tree we had four seats of infection. The weather was favor- 
able for its rapid growth and there was nothing left but to condemn 
the trees. Out of some 8,000 trees 2,800 showed fire blight that 
fall. In my judgment it was better to remove them and burn them 
than to try and clean it up ; so we took them all out the next spring ; 
and I requested the nurseryman to send me trees to replace them, 
which he did. 

In this case, however, we adopted another policy : We were 
able to plant the trees the last of March, and in /\pril beginning 
even before there were signs of growth, we sawed the tops off at 
the height of 18 inches from the ground and put in a graft. I may 
mention that these trees were ^>^s-incli two-vear-old buds. General- 
ly speaking, we had a very good stand and these grafts would make 
a growth of from 2J/2 feet to 4 feet that season; and, if it was 
necessary to do anv more top-workine, I would prefer to do this 
in preference to any other. Personally, I would rather grow the 
trees from individuals and take the time, rather than try to top 
work. I think I can get a better head and save much trouble after- 
wards ; for it is necessary to go over all these trees carefully, even 
to-day, to make sure that shoots are not coming out of the stock, 
and all of this difficulty is avoided when the trunk is the same as 
the top. 

Planting. 

In planting we usuallv prune the roots as little as possible, 
merely remove any injured roots. Prune the tops after it is set. 
We dig as small a hole as we can and put the roots in, and insist 
on the soil beine well packed round them; this is the most im- 
portant thing in planting. Take a tamper along and make sure 
that no roots are left out of contact with soil. If the tree has 
four limbs we do not touch it. I would not on any account cut 
back the ends of the branches. If it has five or six limbs I would 
take one or two off, leaving three or four. If it is possible, we 
like to space these limbs six inches aoart, so that if the lowest be- 
gins at 18 inches from the ground the highest would be nearly 3 
feet. In the case of varieties which tend to droon as R. I. Green- 
ing. I have left a few trees with a leader for experimental purposes, 
but in the bulk of the cases we have merely the four limbs. 

I understand from others that it is goine to be more difficult 
to handle these trees successfully than it would be if the leader were 
left. We shall know more about this matter later. 

The land we took was not in the best of condition. Most of 
it needed underdrainage in order to eive STOod crops and permit of 
proper cultivation. The land is a little too heavv for potatoes and 
the results we secured from trving to grow corn between the trees 
were not encouraging. It seemed to shade them too much ; so 
that we are growing the trees Avithout any crops on the land be- 



86 



tween them. A\'e plow the land or disk it as soon as possible in the 
spring and keep it cultivated until July or the first of August, at 
which time we sow a cover crop. During the past year on 200 
acres of orchard we sowed a mixture of i pound Cow Horn 
Turnips. 4 pounds Dwarf Essex Rape, 5 pounds Crimson Clover 
and 5 pounds of Red Clover per acre, and in addition, we allowed 
all the rag weeds, pig weeds and other weeds that Avould grow to 
come up. Some of them have made a wonderful growth the past 
year, groAving tall enough to hide a horse. A\'e manure the apple 
trees each year, with a light dressing of farm manure. The first 
two years we gave them a small application of probably i to 2 pounds 
per tree of a mixed fertilizer about 3.8.8. This past year we have 
used Basic Slag on some of the apples at the rate of 800 pounds 
per acre on bearing trees, and have had very marked results. Cer- 
tain trees were left as checks, and on them the foliage was not 
nearly so large, nor Avas the growth made this season so long. In 
the past Ave have had more results from Acid Phosphate Avhen ap- 
plied to the peaches than from any other fertilizer, but during the 
past year Ave did not get anv results Avith either Floats at the rate of 
1,200 pour.ds per acre, Avith 500 pounds of Iron Sulphate or from 
Basic Slag at the rate of 600 pounds per acre, or Acid Phosphate 
at the rate of 600 pounds per acre. The trees did not shoAV any 
improA^ement OAXr those Avhich had nothing. \A'e shall continue 
this experiment for certainlv two or three more vears. since these 
trees are located on one of our best soil tvpes. 

Pruning of Peach Trees. 

AMien Ave plant the peach trees Ave cut them oft' to a stub about 
12 to 15 inches long. On this Ave alloAv 3 limbs to groAV, removing 
any others. Since that time these trees liaA'C not been pruned. 
They Avere 3 years planted last ]\Iav and last vear thev bore a suf- 
ficient number of peaches so that the sales Avere $50 per acre 
on one block of nine acres. Our trees do not make the groAvth 
that yours do in this vicinitv : they have not the size that vours 
Avould have, but thev are much lars^er trees than those groAvn in 
orchards Avhere heading back is practiced each year ; and by al- 
io Aving them to bear earh^ thcA' Avill get the necessarv spread of 
limb and open center Avhich Ave aim for. The trees are full of 
fruit buds and it hardlv seems necessarv to do any pruning this 
year, except in the case of a varietv like Late CraAvford, Avhicli 
makes a great deal of Avood. We shall be able to pick everything 
from the ground next vear as Ave did this. As they begin to groAv 
higher Ave shall head them back. 

On Herbert Wadsworth's Estate at Aa'ou, trees handled about 
the same Avav vielded as high as to and 11 baskets, that is one- 
third bushel baskets per tree : in other Avords. a vield of 3 to nearly 
4 bushels of fruit. These trees had been manured during the 
first tAvo years of their life. The soil is sandv and they have been 
kept cultivated all the time, absolutelv clean tillage. The trees have 
not been pruned at all. Alongside is a small apple orchard, trees 
Avere planted four vears ag^o. Some of the Hubbardston trees had 
from 75 to 126 apples each, Avhich made a good crop for so voung 



87 



a tree ; in fact, it was necessary to thin them two or three times 
to prevent their over-bearino-. AMiile the limbs and tops of these 
trees may have appeared close, this weio-ht of fruit is giving them 
the necessarv spread, and limbs which would apoear too close are 
now pulled down,, so that thev do not need to be removed. The 
permanent trees in this orchard are Baldwin and are the same age. 
Almost every tree had from 30 to 40 apples on. The results thus 
far secured bv leaving the trees alone are such that we are encour- 
aged to do less and less pruning. 

Mr. Gould. I think these results are due to the method in 
which the trees are started and that it is necessary that this be kept 
in mind. Won't vou please go over that again? 

The way of pruning is verv important. Leave 4 limbs six 
inches apart on the trunk if you can. A\'e find we can do it. Do 
not cut the terminal buds ofi: these limbs. Remember thev are the 
ones which will come into growth first and if removed the tree 
will probably be all of ten days longer in getting the latent buds 
into leaf, and that ten davs cannot be recovered. We must get 
leaf growth — in order to get root growth. The sooner the tree 
gets into business after it is planted the better. In some cases when 
we cannot get the branch where we want it we have put a bud in 
the trunk. AA'e have tried yearling buds and some two-year-olds 
and like the vearlings verv well. At the end of four years they 
seem to be just as far ahead as the two-year-olds. They are very 
easy to plant. One block of i.oco were put in this year at the cost 
of about cents each for planting. 

Pruning Old Trees. 

In the case of trees at the bearing age which have been neg- 
lected and allowed to become quite thick, we found it advisable to 
prune such only during the bearing vear. Pruning them late in 
the season after the blossoms have fallen. In this wav we have 
avoided any tendencv of water sprouts. \Yq find we can take 
much more wood out with safety than if we prune in a year that 
the tree is not bearing, and in the case of all varieties which bear 
every other vear normallv. such as Baldwin, I would rather wait 
one year and prune heavilv when thev are bearina'. There is one 
rule we give in regard to the amount of wood which shall come out 
of a tree. It is this: i. Remove all dead wood and badly dis- 
eased limbs. 2. Remember that the sun must reach all parts of 
the tree sometime in the dav. If it cannot reach a limb, either 
that limb or some other must come out. Another rule is this: If 
it is a nuestion of an upper or lower limb ; save the lower. 

Member. Do you knock some of the fruit oft'? 

Mr. Frazer. Yes, but we have to thin anvway. 

Member. Is it true that in some of the Xew York orchards 
they have nearlv eliminated the so-called oft'-year? 

Mr. Frazer. Yes. It is being eliminated, even with such varie- 
ties as Baldwin. B. J. Case, of Sodus, has had seven successive 
crops of Baldwin. Of course, varieties like Duchess of Oldenburg 
and ^laiden Blush bear everv year with us anywav. 

Member. Do you do it entirely by thinning? 



88 



Mr. Frazer. Thinning and pruning. 

We have a bearing orchard of about 6^ acres of trees scat- 
tered over ten acres. It had been neglected and was about 33 
years old. The trees were 33x33 feet apart. They were all touch- 
nig and were too thick. The orchard was in sod and was rented 
for pasture for the sum of $25.00 per year and the most the crop 
had sold for was $75.00, according to the statement of the tenant. 
I paid the tenant $75.00 to let me have it ; and in ^lay, 1906, I 
borrowed a sprav rig and we sprayed it. We did some pruning, 
taking out the dead wood. We sold the fruit on the trees that 
year with 400 barrels which I had ordered for $900.00. W^e made 
a map of the orchard showing the varieties. The following year 
was the off-year, and the land was still in sod, and the crop sold for 
$630.00. In 1908 the land was plowed and every other tree had 
been removed during the previous winter. We were able to do 
this from our map, having carefully noted on it all trees wdiich were 
of poor varieties or injured and making careful tally to find wdiich 
row would need to be removed in order to leave the most good 
trees. W'e took out every other row on the diagonal, sometimes 
some good trees had to come out ; in other cases we had to put a 
young tree in, but in spite of the loss of trees the yield that year 
sold for $1,320.00. The trees were pruned again, taking those 
which were in bearing. The following vear we sold for $1,340.00 
and this year, 1910, which should have been our big year we had 
very poor weather at the time the Greenings were in bloom and 
had a very small crop of this varietv, which constitutes a large pro- 
portion of the orchard ; so that our vield this year will not sell 
for much more than $1,200.00. 

Spraying. 

Our method of spraying during the past year was to spray 
about the time the buds were breaking until the leaves are the size 
of a mouse's ear. with lime-sulphur i to 9 with 2 pounds of Arse- 
nate of Lead to 50 o-allons. This takes care of the Blister mite 
which is moving at that time and the Arsenate of Lead is for the 
bud moth and case bearers which have been a serious trouble in 
Western New York. AA^e intended to sprav again just before the 
blossoms opened, but left it until the blossoms fell. The omission 
of No. 2 spraving was a mistake, I believe. The second year we 
had the orchard we used Bordeaux mixture and Arsenate of Lead 
for the spraying after bloom, but we had so much injurv from the 
Bordeaux that we have not used it since, using merely Arsenate 
of Lead. This gave us good results. We spraved the trees from 
3 directions with Arsenate of Lead at the strength of 2 pounds to 
50 gallons, and on trees which would bear 10 to 14 barrels we find 
we have applied about 17 gallons of solution to a tree in the three 
s])rayino-s. This was followed in ten davs with a lieht spraying 
of weak Bordeaux with Arsenate of Lead. This past vear, how- 
ever, we changed our policv and used Lime-sulphur at the strength 
of I to .^3 with 2 pounds of Arsenate of Lead as soon as the blos- 
soms fell and did not applv so much to the tree, but even with this 
we found we encountered russeting where the fruit met the full 



89 



force of the sprav. Where the fruit did not get the full force of 
the spray the Lime-sulphur tended to control the natural russeting 
of the fruit; and in a neighbor's orchard where the material was 
put on with a hand pump at a much lower pressure than we put 
it on. the russeting was almost eliminated ; while in a neighbor's 
orchard which was not sprayed, it was quite prevalent ; so that we 
are convinced that russeting may be due to natural causes as well 
as spray injury, and ma}' result even when Lime-sulphur is used. 
Our modified method of this year was not thorough enough to 
control all the coddling moth. Next vear we intend to make our 
Lime-sulphur much weaker probablv i to 70 and resort to a thor- 
ough drenching of the tree as soon as the blossoms fall in order 
to control the coddling moth. 

\\ c tried making our own concentrated Lime- Sulphur, but 
cussed it and quit. A\'e had — the picnic of our lives. Your Prof. 
Stewart told us all about it at one of our meetings, how nice and 
easy it was to do. He told us how to cook it. We tried it in 
the basement of the creamerv. It fumigated the creamery all 
right. Just about the time we had it all nicely cooked, for some 
reason it would boil over, and half of the contents of the barrel 
would be on the floor and sailing down the sewer before we could 
catch it. Someone has to boil it. I am willing to let the other 
fellow do it. 

Member. W'ha.t kind of a sprayer do you use? 

Mr. Frazer. A Deyo engine and Goulds pump. When w^e 
spray for leaf-curl on peaches, which must be done when the land 
is quite soft, too soft to take our big rig on the land, we have a 
small one which consists of a Gould's pump and a couple of bar- 
rels in the box of the wagon. In the case of the currants we find 
we have to use a hand pump on some narrow vis such as a stone- 
boat in order to drive in among them. intend to make a little 
narrow wagon for this purpose. 

Member. Do you plant when the land is wet? 

Mr. Frazer. Yes. We have planted when we had to bail the 
water out of the holes. In some cases we filled in the soil and left 
the tree and the trees are doing all right. 

Member. Do vou plow the land or do you plant in sod? 

Mr. Frazer. We tried to plow all the land before planting, 
but some places we planted in the sod and plowed after. We had 
20,000 trees to plant the first vear and could not get anything to- 
gether until the first of April. 

Member. How do vou handle your peaches? 

Mr. Frazer. We have tried to not plow our peaches. We 
have worked down the weeds and cover crop by running a disk 
harrow over the land in four directions ; this chops them up. 
Later we follow with the Planet Junior Orchard Tool. Xo. 41 or 
42, putting on the narrow teeth, afterwards we put on the wide 
teeth. In this wav we work up the surface soil, alternating some- 
times between the disk and the cultivator and sorine tooth harrow. 
We varv the tool accordino- to the soil and its condition. As I 
have said before some of our land must be underdrained so that 
we can go on it earlv in the season. In regard to varieties I do 



90 

not feel like ti;yino- many new ones. Our permanent trees are the 
standard sorts, namely, 60 acres of Greening, 60 acres of Baldwin, 
20 acres of Spy, are planted 50 feet by 44 feet; as fillers among 
these, planted at 25 feet by 22 feet, we have 20 acres of Mcin- 
tosh, 20 acres of Wealthy, 20 acres of Wagner, 10 of Hubbardston, 
10 of Duchess of Oldenburg, and the balance are Rome Beauty, 
Boiken, Maiden Blush and Twenty Ounce. 

Member. Will the tree roots not interfere with the drains? 

Mr. Frazer. I do not think they will. 

Member. What varieties of peaches do you grow? 

Mr. Frazer. Mainly Elberta, with a few Craw fords and some 
Belle of Georgia, and we are trying a few other varieties. The 
Belle of Georgia has done very well for us. 

Member. What have you after Crawford? 

Mr. Frazer. W'e have a few Niagara and a few Salway. We 
ate our last Salway after election. Our Elbertas were sold at 
$1.80 per bushel in the village. The Niagara ripen with the Late 
Crawford. 

Member. How about putting barn-yard manure on peaches? 

Mr. Frazer. In New Jersey we keep the manure away, but 
on our land we are not likely to get too much manure on it. 

The cost this year for labor and teams to cultivate the orchard 
was about $15.00 per acre. It cost us more the first year to culti- 
vate our currants because they were planted on a piece of land 
which was full of quack and we cultivated that field fifty times 
during six months. On those thirteen acres of currants in the 
spring we find it necessary to keep one man on the field all the time.. 
We can only work it with one horse now since the bushes are 
large. AVe keep an exact record of all work done on each field. 
Each man has his time sheet and his time and that of his team is 
charged up to each field each night. So far we have not been able 
to secure more than $200.00 per acre, gross, on our bearing or- 
chards. AVe hope to get more. We hear such stories about some 
of the orchards of the West yielding from $800.00 to $1,500.00 
per acre that one is lead to wonder whether their acres are average 
acres or not. 

I was in a four-acre block of Twenty Ounce and Alexander 
apples this year at Hilton, N. Y., and the fruit from it was sold 
two years ago for $6,400.00, or $1,600.00 per acre, and I judge it 
would make about the same money this year. This represents what 
is obtainable. We pick our fruit in baskets. We pack some in 
boxes, but have generally used the barrel. A¥e usually make three 
pickings of our Greenings and the same of Spy and have made two 
of the Baldwins. The fruit left on the tree will frequently double 
in size in ten days. We are verv much troubled with mice ; and 
in the winter time, in order to protect our trees we bank them with 
soil and when the snow comes high and drifts we have to tramp 
it round the trees. Last year this took all our force for about three 
weeks to keep our trees protected. AA^e find it necessary to throw 
some soil to them in September since the mice will work even be- 
fore snow comes. I have seen as high as 15 per cent, of the trees 
30 years old injured bv mice during the winter. I know of one 



91 



man who lost one-third of his trees which w^ere from 15 to 20 
years old in a single winter because he neglected to protect them 
from mice. 

R. M. Eldon. What time do you bridge graft? 

Mr. Frazer. Just as soon as we can in the spring. Bridge 
graft all girdled trees just as soon as the ground is thawed and the 
sa^^ beg^ins to move. We drive our chisel right into the wood above 
and below the injured portion. Cut the graft to fit the place and 
spring it in ; tie it in with raffia and wax it. Cut the raffia about 
ten days or two weeks later. Allow one bridge graft to each inch 
of injured surface. If they do not take, of course, the tree may 
have to come out. One important thing is to stake the tree and 
tie it firmly to the stake so that the wind will not blow it and spring 
the grafts out. 

Member. Is it as good to top-work at the time of planting as 
it would be to grow the tree one year and top-work the next? 

Mr. Frazer. W'ith us the tree is more susceptible to fire 
blight if the top-working be deferred than it would be if done the 
first year. If I were doingr it to-day I would either graft as al- 
ready outlined or insert 3 buds, one above the other on the windward 
side of the tree about one inch or inches apart in August after 
planting. If all take, cut two ofif when you come to top the tree. 
You have three chances. Do not allow more than one bud to grow. 
If all three buds fail the tree can be grafted the next spring. I 
would not care to advise anyone to try top-working, although some 
of our growers feel that they must top-work Kino- just as some of 
you feel that Grimes' Golden is worthless on its own trunk. 

E. B. Snyder. What would you advise planting to top-work? 

Mr. Frazer. We have tried to get Talman Sweet since it 
has a good trunk. I prefer it to Northern Sdv. since we find a 
number of trees wdiich show color rot. 

R. M. Eldon. Would you prefer budded trees to root grafts? 

Mr. Frazer. I have no choice. I think, however, I would 
rather buy a Northern Spy root grafted than trust to a budded tree 
of that variety. 




A Plate of Apples from Adams County. 



92 




A LLTMilR n't Ab-i-M- Li'L^XTV GrOWX "AViXTER 

Baxaxa/'' (every speciment perfect.) 



MANAGEMENT OF 700-ACRE ORCHARD FOR 
ONE YEAR. 



^Ir. Cohill. 



Again it is my pleasure to address this Association, continuing 
our talk of the preceding day to the culminating phase of orchard- 
ing, its management. 

This is an exceedingly broad subject and my object in view is 
to give simply and briefly the essential points of the management 
of a 700-acre orchard for one year. It would be the work of 
volumes to enter minutely upon the details of orchard management 
and my idea is to speak in general upon the essentials. Any points 
on which my assistance may be of aid to you. I would be only too 
glad to help you if I can. Don't hesitate to interrupt be at any time. 



93 



I want to bring- out a point in ]\Ir. Frazer's talk, which covers 
our conditions, regarding potato culture in an orchard. We allow 
our men to have patches. Usually they plant potatoes, with the re- 
sult that the fruit we harvested (the first three crops) was practi- 
cally worthless, hardly any value at all. Other places, where ferti- 
lizer, manure and cover crops were used, we had almost the same 
result, and it looks to us as if we would either have to grow fruit 
or potatoes. We plant the trees so close, 20 feet apart, that it is 
not profitable to raise anything between them. 

AVe pjiy our laboring men $1.50 per day, 15 cents an hour, 
and furnish married men with a house costing about $600.00 or 
$700.00, then charge them rent covering the interest, or $4.00 per 
month. We, also, give them truck patches, furnish them with 
wood, horse to drive to town, etc. 

Question. Do you give them time to raise potatoes? 

Mr. Cohill. We stop at four Saturday afternoons and give 
them horse and plow to care for them. 

Pruning. 

It is very important that young trees get proper pruning for 
much depends upon it in the future. In many orchards improper 
pruning is practiced, while in others no pruning whatever is done. 
I must say that better results can be obtained from the latter. 
Many orchardists have the idea that after a bunch of men have 
been started to pruning that all is well, and they will do the work 
properly. 

A\'ell let me tell you that this is taking a long chance, for we 
have a high class of laboring men working for us, as well as re- 
sponsible foremen, but nevertheless the field manager is on the job. 
We do our pruning diu'ing January, February and ^larch, keeping 
a force out when weather conditions will permit, usually about half 
time is made. 

These three months are usually severe but we find some very 
favorable weather, and with plenty of men, have time to treat each 
tree individually or in other words, treat each tree as though it 
were the only one we had. AA'e had our inexperienced man with 
one of a year or more experience, making two men to each row, 
until the inexperienced men have been taught, then each man 
thereafter takes a row and is responsible for it. 

Each man is equipped with a saw, large pruning shears and small 
hand pruners. Following behind the pruners is a boy to cover all 
wounds over half inch across, with white lead and linseed oil paint 
to prevent the exposed wood from drying out. We, also, use a 
boy to gather up the cut limbs and put them into piles. We use 
a team with light sled, with very broad, light bed, to carry the brush 
off to a vacant space to be burned. Be sure to haul this brush off 
before growing season, because there is nothing which looks worse 
than trash of this sort in an orchard, and it also prevents clean 
cultivation. 

The old style of high-headed apple trees has gone out of favor 
with the progressive fruit growers, and the common sense method 



94 



is taking its place. The low-headed trees have the advantage of 
high-headed ones in being easier and cheaper to spray, prune and 
gather fruit from, and less injury to dropped fruit, and less injury 
by storm. 

The fruit will color and ripen as well. The disadvantages are 
none, provided they are pruned properly. 

There is a great difference of pruning fruit trees, by growers, 
college professors, and men with theories, and one point upon which 
they differ mostly is the ''straight leader" and the ''open head." 

We have experimented with the "straight leader" and the 
"open head" methods of pruning an apple tree, with the result of 
adopting the straight leader as the best. 

Question. How do you get rid of the crotch? 

Mr. Cohill. Nearly all growers agree that the "straight lead- 
er" avoids the crotch, and beginning when a whip, with careful 
pruning it can be entirely avoided. 

Question. How long do you let the leader grow before prun- 
ing it oft"? 

Mr. Cohill. Prune when planting, then the third year again. 
Our "straight leader" is much of a tw^o-story type, for, by keeping 
the entire centre thinned out well when they bear, it opens up like 
the "open head" method, still getting the rec[uired support. 

Question. How high is the first tier above ground? 

Mr. Cohill. Start them about i8 inches. Do not let them go 
straight out, make them slant. 

Question. How are you going to help it after they begin 
to bear ? 

Mr. Cohill. This can be avoided, to a certain extent, by proper 
pruning. I am going to give a table that we followed for our prun- 
ing as closely as possible for the first four years, using a straight 
leader as a standard. 

First Year. 

The first year consists of pruning done when the trees are 
planted but if any new shoots tend to make the tree un symmetrical 
the tips should be pinched off in the summer to check their growth. 
This summer pinching of symmetrical shoots should be done when- 
ever necessary in the following years. 

Second Year. 

Cut out all surplus branches and prune back the foundation 
branches from one-third to one-half their growth, making the tree 
symmetrical and leaving the central leader shoots longer than the 
others. Avoid crotches, as they will surely split later and ruin 
the trees. 

Third Year. 

Do not let two branches cross or rub, and if twigs have grown 
on the foundation branches near the trunks do not disturb them, 
except to cut back several buds to induce fruit spurs. 



Fourth Year. 



Until the trees begin to bear the foundation branches should 
be cut back annually to make them short and strong to support 
heavy loads of fruit in the future. After fruiting begins not much 
pruning is necessary, except to thin out surplus growth and keep 
the tree symmetrical. In cutting or sawing off all limbs the cut 
should be made close so as not to leave a stub. This is very im- 
portant for wounds properly pruned heal over readily, while stubs 
seldom heal, thus decaying into the trunk is the result of weakening 
and injury to the tree. 

Another very common mistake is pruning from the bottom up, 
but this should not be done. Prune from the top down. 

Fertilization. 

A\'e get our fertilization in the form of manure, cover crops, 
and commercial fertilizer. We have excellent railroad facilities, 
having a siding of the W. M. R. R. right in our orchard. The most 
of our fertilizer is gotten in the form of manure, bought in the 
cities of Hagerstown, Washington and Baltimore, in carload lots, 
and our teams are kept busy hauling from January to March, or up 
until spraying season for scale. There were three cars standing 
on the siding wdien I left home, and the teams are now busy spread- 
ing it about the orchard. 

During these months w^e have quite a little sledding snow, 
which is the best time for hauling heavy loads, so we get an un- 
usually heavy supply during good sledding. It is best handled in 
Gondola cars which average about 30 tons. 

Question. What does your manure cost you? 

Mr. Cohill. Cannot say exactly but I think, at least, several 
dollars per ton. 

Question. Is it worth it? 

Mr. Cohill. Yes. The results prove it to be. 

Question. How many tons to the acre? 

Mr. Cohill. About eight or ten good wagon or sled loads, 
or ten forks-full to the tree. 

Question. Do you use any other form of fertilizer? 

Mr. Cohill. Yes. Cover crops and commercial fertilizer. If 
you have an orchard which requires a lot of cultivation and spray- 
ing, there should be two separate gangs to look after it. Both must 
be done thoroughly. 

Scale Spraying. 

Spraying for San Jose scale is the next w^ork of importance 
with us, which we start just as soon as weather conditions permit, 
and push this work very hard in order to get our teams started on 
cultivation. If there is such a thing as a commercial orchard of 
any size being free from scale, I think we have one, for the State 
Entomologist and State Horticulturist, as well as the state orchard 
inspectors, go through our orchards every year and make close ob- 



96 



servatioiis and have reported free from seale. \\q spray annually 
as a preventive using concentrated lime and sulphur i to 8. There 
is only one way in which to keep your orchard free and that is to 
spray every year and do it thoroughly. 

Just as soon as spraying is completed we start on our cultiva- 
tion. This year we expect to greatly increase our stock and run a 
separate crew of cultivators and sprayers, for cultivating really 
should be started when spraying starts, if the soil is in condition, 
and to get perfect apples it requires at least three sprayings. Previ- 
ous to this, one force of teams have done the work, as the amount 
of fruit has not justified so many sprayings. 

Horses vs. Mules. 

The first thing of importance in cultivation, and in fact all 
orchard work where stock is required, is to select the animal to do 
the work, and we find the good mule our best friend in that re- 
spect. 

Emphasis on the good, for usually when you speak of a good 
jiiule people laugh. A great many people do not know a mule only 
as a kicker, balker, and an animal with all sorts of bad faults, but 
let me tell you we have a lot of good big mules that have no tricks 
and beat the horse at every stage of the game. 

A\'e started with big horses and are replacing with big mules, 
our experience with them prove these advantages. 

They eat less feed, they do almost twice the work on hot sum- 
mer days. A man can kill a horse in summer on a hot day, but 
the mule can kill the man. They will stand rough treat-ment by in- 
difi:"erent drivers, just like a goat in getting over rough rock — breaks 
and new grounds, and are just as good on the road. These quali- 
ties are what a fruit grower wants, and a good big mule will fill 
the bill. 

Spraying for the Protection of the Apple. 

The codling moth is one of the most serious insect pests the 
fruit grower must combat. Data collected by the Government and 
State Experiment Stations have found that from forty to sixty 
per cent, of the annual yield is injured by the codling moth, which 
makes the fruit unfit for a market, and some almost worthless for 
home use. \Miile a large number of up-to-date orchardists do 
spray for the pest, a vast majority do not appreciate the extent of 
the injury it causes. 

The first spraying for the codling moth should be just as soon 
as the petals begin falling and before the lobes of the calyx draw 
together. This period of time is about ten days. Have a good 
mouthful of poison there when the larvae attempts to enter the 
apple. 

Mr. Grove. How about spraying when in full bloom? 
Mr. Cohill. We have never done that, and I could not tell 
you of the result. 



97 



Question. AMiat kind of spray material do you use for scale? 

Mr. Cohill. AA'e use lime-sulphur, but there are other prepa- 
rations that can be used just as success fuly. 

Prof. Surface. How do you dilute Lime-Sulphur for sum- 
mer spraying? 

Mr. Cohill. For coddling moth 1^2 gallons of concentrated so- 
lution I to 8 to 50 gallons of water used with Arsenate of Lead. 

Two pounds of Arsenate of Lead is universally recommended 
applied along with gallons of concentrated Lime and Sulphur. 
\Ve used this preparation as recommended by Prof. W. ]\L Scott, 
Pathologist, Department of Agriculture, with exceedingly good re- 
sults. 

We also made the second spraying for codling moth ten days 
later. 

Cutivation. 

On account of the location of the Tonoloway orchards, on such 
hilly and rolling land, the practice of cultivation will need to be 
modified because they cannot be handled like an orchard on level 
ground. In hilly or mountainous orchards clean cultivation can- 
not be safely adopted, on account of the danger of serious washing 
away of soil, unless furrows are plowed following the contour 
of the land, to check this washing. 

W^e plow strips wide enough to cultivate with a harrow on 
each side of the tree, along the rows, in the spring and cultivate until 
July I5tli or ist of August. After thoroughly cultivating these 
strips, every other middle may be plowed, leaving one solid and 
one cultivated. The following year plow up the remaining middles 
and leave the other down in clover crop ; these strips prevent wash- 
ing. There isn't any land too steep to practice clean tillage by this 
method. After harrowing down, the fertilizer can be applied and 
a cover crop sown. 

Mr. Roberts. AMiat kind of harrow do you use? 

Ans. We use a spring-tooth harrow. 

Question. How do you harrow the lower side of the trees 
on the hillside? 

Ans. That is a job. Go through on each side of your row 
with the harrow then zigzag in and out. 

R. M. Eldon. Have you ever tried a spring-tooth harrow on 
the hillside? 

Mr. Cohill. Yes. And I have seen it done. 

R. M. Eldon. It is less painful to have the hired man do it 
than to do it yourself. 

Prof. Surface. How close do you harrow to the tree? 

Mr. Cohill. Right up to it. There is no uncultivated ground 
under the trees. 

Question. Do you skin the trees? 

Mr. Cohill. Sometimes a careless workman may do a great 
amount of injury. This should be closely watched. 

W. H. Black. Do you practice that with a large tree? 
Mr. Cohill. Yes, where proper pruning has been done. 



98 

Mr. Snyder. How do you plan to plow under trees? 

Mr Cohill. Have an experienced man as leader, to plow the 
first furrow, one who is reliable and careful not to bruise the tree. 
He can plow with one hand under the trees. It is rather trouble- 
some. 

C. A. Griest. How much spread of limits have your eight- 
year-old trees? 

Mr. Cohill. In some places they touch, planted 20 feet apart. 
It takes width of two harrows on each side for cultivation. 

Prof. Surface. Do you turn the ground toward the tree, or 
use the hillside plow? 

Mr. Cohill. One year we turn toward the trees, another year 
away from the trees. If the land is steep, plow the lower side 
of tree row up the hill every year. On one farm we turned the 
ground toward the tree for seven years, with the result that the 
ground was piled high about the trees. They grew very little this 
summer, leaves were not bright. 

Mr. Rinehart. What kept them from growing? 

Mr. Cohill. W^e think the ground plowed up around the trunk 
of the trees kept the air circulation away from the roots. 

Cover Crops. 

P'or cover crops we use crimson clover, red clover and cow 
peas, using cow peas for a summer cover crop, and crimson clover 
and red clover mixed, on alternating years for our winter cover. 
I have with me a written account of the cost of maintaining fof 
what we think an ideal 30-acre apple orchard) for the first eight 
years, with details of cultivation, cover crops, fertilizer, pruning 
and spraying, and would be glad to show it to anyone interested. 
(Ed. — Statement reproduced at end of this paper). 

A great many complaints are made by growers of their cover 
crops not taking, and the trouble usually lies in the ground not be- 
ing properly prepared, and also if the ground is dry the seeding 
should be delayed until rain comes. Crimson clover especially will 
not germinate in dry soil. Run the harrow just ahead of the sower, 
not a week ahead, nor two days ahead, but the same day. 

C. J. Tyson. Do you cover the seed? 

Mr. Cohill. You can use a harrow to do that but we don't 
usually practice that. The important tiling in my mind is getting 
the ground in shape and sowing at the proper time. 

Good Roads. 

I don't know how strong Adams countv is for good roads. 
Good roads are an absolute necessity to the fruit grower, so when 
it is too wet to cultivate, make a good road through your orchard 
to the packing house. Get out your neighbors and everybody help 
repair the county road to your railroad station. You had better 
look after this because bumping over only a few stones to the sta- 
tion will ruin your fruit for market. 



99 



If you have a dirt road, get the county's road plow, a road 
scoop, and level up with split road drag. In the spring or early 
summer is the best time. 

Peaches. 

Although we only advertise our apples, we have 3.000 peach 
trees, all bearing, and from these we shipped 20 carloads this season, 
nearly all Elbertas and Billyeus — I shall, however, leave the peach 
story to Air. Newcomer to tell the Association about the noted 
peaches of A\'ashington county. Aid. 

W. W. Boyer. Should Billyeu be planted on low ground? 

Mr. Cohill. I should not advise Billyeus being planted on low 
land. Our elevation is i.ioo feet. 

Mr. Anderson. Do you use peaches as fillers ? 

Mr. Cohill. We have but would never do it again. 

There is one thing we have had experience with in peach busi- 
ness, namely, using peaches as fillers in an apple orchard, and I 
certainlv would not advise anvone to do it. 

Mr. Keller. Why? 

Mr. Cohill. Because, in the first place, the trouble this year 
has been with the curculio, with us. I would never do it again for 
a number of reasons of which I think curculio is the most im- 
portant. Drive it oft your peaches and it goes on the apples. We 
lost 90 per cent, of our apple crop mixed in with the peaches. They 
require dift'erent cultivation and dift'erent spraying. 

Disadvantages. 

Greatest disadvantage is curculio which over-balanced any 
other advantage. The profit of our peach crop was reduced by the 
loss from stung apples caused by curculio. Spray peach and he 
goes to apple. Early apples are better than peaches. 

R. M. Eldon. Do your peach trees overgrow the apple trees? 

Mr. Cohill. Our peach trees are now mixed with apple trees, 
apples 5 40 feet apart with peach fillers and at 7 years old they are 
coming together. 

C. A. Griest. What fertilizer does it recjuire to grow peaches ? 

Mr. Cohill. I do not remember and I did not put it down in 
my notes as I did not expect to talk about peaches. Will leave 
that to Mr. Newcomer. 

After there has been so much work and care to grow the fruit 
to perfection, the important features in harvesting the crop in- 
clude picking, grading, packing and erecting and maintaining a 
star.dard all combined to yield the largest net profits to the grower. 

Picking. 

It has come to be regarded among good orchardists, as im- 
portant not to bruise an apple as it is not to break an egg. Careful 
handling of the fruit is the first essential to good prices. Good 
packing can be brought about by careful picking. The fruit must 



lOO 



be picked at the right time, and handled with great care in getting 
it to the packing house. Do not pick ah the fruit at one picking. 
This holds true with nearly all varieties for if the small apples 
are left upon the tree they will often increase in size enough to make 
A Xo. I fruit. In picking, see that the whole stem is removed and 
without breaking olf the fruit spur, as the future crop may be in- 
jured. Keep the fruit out of the rain and hot sun. 

Mr. Newcomer. How far apart were your pickings? 

Mr. Cohill. Depending upon weather conditions, about ten 
days to two weeks. 

We use a picking bag and pour the fruit into a lined box made 
of special durability, with sawed out hand-holes to lift by. ^lake 
the box to lit the wagon bed with a double decker type. 

Grading. 

A\'e have not adopted the box pack as yet. for the barrel has 
been exceedingly profitable for us. although we expect to put up 
some boxes next year. The company thinks as long as they get 
$4.00 to $5.50 per barrel it beats the box. Solid cars of our Jona- 
thans reached the price of S5.50 per barrel shipped direct from the 
orchard as soon as picked, to Xew York. 

pack three grades of barrels, fancy,. Xo. i and Xo. 2's. 
The fancy and Xo. I's have a label of the orchard company. Avhile 
the X'o. 2"s have no identification, but marked plainly a Xo. 2. The 
fancy is a large uniform, well colored apple of the variety, while 
the Xo. I is of a smaller uniform size, well colored, all larger than 
2^/2 inches. The value of accurate grading of fruit to a uniform 
size and appearance, is the selling factor of any package, be it a 
barrel or a box. 

Worming Trees. 

This is one of the utmost importance to a yoimg orchard. The 
best time to worm is in ]\Iay or September : we worm our trees 
every year in the early fall. This busy little worm does a great 
deal of damage, and by the time we get around to him he has done 
what he thinks his duty in killing the trees. 

W^ashing the yoimg trees with whale-oil soap is the next fall 
■^^(ork. This has a tendency to keep rabbits from tearing the tree, 
and is very effective against San Jose scale, and also makes the 
trunk and limbs clean and smooth. Dilute 2 poimds of whale-oil 
soap to I gallon of water, boiling the soap until dissolved and apply 
to the tree, either by spra3dng or put on with a whitewash brush, 
over the trunk, fork and main limbs. 

I note with interest what Air. Frazer tells about whale-oil soap 
controlling the worm. A\'e have used whale-oil soap a number of 
years, both fall and spring, and. though it might have effect on them 
during egging, I think you will find the worm there just the same. 

This completes the year's work, as this brings us within a few' 
days of Christmas, and work is closed until the first of the year. 
So our only vacation is during the holidays. 



lOI 

ORCHARD EXPENSE STATEMENT FOR 7 YEARS.* 

E. P. COHILL. 



The following detailed statement by Air. E. P. Cohill, Hancock, 
of his seven-year-old thirty-acre orchard is most valuable as a guide 
for V\>stern ^Maryland. This orchard was handled as follows : 

First Year. — Narrow strips cultivated along tree rows and 
cowpeas grown in middles. 

Second Year. — Same as first year except that crimson clover 
was grown instead of cowpeas. 

Third Year. — Same as second year. 

Fourth Year. — All of the ground cultivated until August when 
red clover seed was sown. 

Fifth and Sixth Years. Strips cultivated along tree rows and 
red clover left on middles until August when all of the ground was 
plowed and seeded to red clover. 

Seventh Year. — All of the ground cultivated until August 15 
when red clover seed was sown. Two hundred pounds per acre of 
a mixture of 12 per cent, phosphoric acid and 5 per cent, potash, 
were applied August 15. 

Hogs were pastured in the orchard from ]\Iay i to November 
I during the first six years. Air. Cohill states that the manure and 
clover plowed under in this orchard have increased the value of the 
land at least twenty dollars per acre. 

There are 3.000 trees set 20 feet apart each way in the 30 acres. 
They were planted in November, 1902, and April, 1903. Labor is 
figured at 15 cents per hour. 

Statement by Air. E. P. Cohill, Plancock. 



3,000 trees, at 12c $ 360.00 

Plowing before planting 72.00 

1st year. 1903. 

Fertilizer and Tobacco Dust, 25.00 

Planting, 63,00 

Alanure, 75-00 

Cultivating 215,00 

Cowpeas and Clover seed, 78,00 

By Hog pasture, 84.00 

2nd year, 1904, 

Cultivating, 178.00 

Alanure 67.00 

Prunmg, 12.00 

By Hog pasture, 96.00 

3d year, 1905. 

Cultivating, 225.00 

Alanure, 120.00 

Pruning, 26.00 

By Hog pasture, 100.00 



*From Bulletin Xo. 144, "Apple Culture", Alaryland Agri. Exp. Station, 
Page 262. 



102 



4th year. 1906. 

Cultivating, 318.00 

Manure, 125.00 

I'runing '. 12.00 

Clover seed, 17.00 

By Hog pasture, 171.00 

5 th year. 1907. 

Cultivating 260.00 

3^ianure i35-00 

Pruning 22.00 

Spraying 86.00 

r.y Hog pasture 150.00 

!)}• Apples and Cider, 65.00 

6th year. 1908. 

Culiivating 367.00 

Manure 60.00 

Pruning, 20.00 

Spraying and material 225.00 

By Hog pasture 141.00 

By 150 bbls. Apples and Cider 308.00 

Clover seed, 24.00 

Picking, packing and handling apples, 63.00 
7th year, 1909. 

Cultivating 165.00 

AJanure, 115.00 

Pruning 17.00 

Spraying and material 293.00 

Fertilizers. 78.00 

Picking, packing and handling 255.00 

By Hog pasture, 192.00 

By 850 bbls. Apples and Cider, 1,952.00 



$3,259.00 $4,173.00 

These figures sho^v that up to the end of the seventh year the 
orchard has not been self-supporting by $914.00, yet if we consider 
the increased value of the land, due to manure and cover crops, at 
$20.00 per acre the deficit is reduced to $314.00. 

Some old apple trees on land purchased by ^Ir. Cohill several 
years ago have produced a full crop of apples each year for the last 
five years. 

Another orchardist in Washington County makes the following 
statement from memory as he has not kept accurate records : 

The trees cost $4.80 per acre and the planting $1.00 per acre. 
Crops were grown among the trees for the first five years and about 
paid the running expenses of the orchard. Ben Davis began to bear 
at eight years and York at twelve years of age. At the present time 
one-half of the orchard is twenty-one years old and the other half 
eighteen years and the most profitable crop brought $150.00 per acre 
while the average income is about $90.00 per acre. The crop is good 
on bearing years and about one-fourth of a crop on ofif years. 
Spraying costs S15.00 per acre, pruning $1.50. picking, etc., $16.00 
annually. 



I03 

Mr. Lupton. The beauty of this fruit growing business of 
ours. Mr. President, is that no two of us agree. ]\Ir. Cohill seems 
to think that the future of apple growing is going to be in the hands 
of commercial or company orchardists. ^ly belief is that it is the 
reverse that is likely to happen. It seems to me as soon as fruit 
growing gets beyond a man's personal attention he runs up against 
obstacles that are almost unsurmountable. ]\Iy own belief is that 
the small grower, the man who has lo acres in orchard, will be the 
man who will look after the best trade and get the fancy prices. 
We large growers will have to take ours to the cider-mill or to the 
canners. I feel like encouraging the small grower. I differ with 
^Ir. Cohill in another particular. I think we should not plant 
Grimes Golden too freely. There is no question as to its quality, 
but it is universally conceded to be a shy bearer compared with 
York Imperial and some other varieties. To make the same amount 
of money out of Grimes Golden as York Imperial you would have 
to get twice as much per barrel. You have Stayman Winesap here 
that is worthy of going on the exhibition table anywhere. Very 
much better than those I brought up from A\'inchester. We have 
small lots of Grimes Golden all over the County of Frederick. We 
had a considerable output of Grimes this year, and they were very 
fine but the increase price was not enough to justify planting largely, 
then again the tree is subject to a blight that kills it anywhere from 
10 to 15 years. Even as a filler, the disposition of the tree to be 
a shy bearer is a disadvantage. Many of our people are thinking 
highly of the Duchess. Our experience with the Duchess is very 
limited, planting so recently that on that point my own information 
is not worth much, but still our people are very much in favor of the 
Duchess. 

Question. A\'ould you think it worth while to work Grimes 
on York Imperial? 

Mr. Lupton. I know so little about working one variety on 
another, that is. which variety is best to top w^ork on another va- 
riety, that I hesitate to answer. You will have to get the advice of 
some expert in the Agricultural Department. My practice of 
planting trees in the fall is not so good as Air. Cohill's. I always 
try to dig the holes so as to have them ready wdien the trees come. 
I never heel in the trees if I can help it. Plant right in the ground 
as soon as I get them, and plant deep and well. 

Question. Do you think it would be an advantage to soak 
the roots long enough to revive the trees ? 

Mr. Lupton. I do not know just how much reviving they 
need, just how long they have been out of the ground. It might 
do to drop them in a puddle and leave them there a few minutes. 
I want to get them in the ground as soon as possible. I hardly be- 
lieve, for small plantings as most of us are likely to do, that it is 
necessary to dig the holes until we get the trees. 

Question. Is it an advantage to have dry soil or wet soil for 
planting? 

Mr. Lupton. It has been our experience to have the ground 
fairly dry, otherwise our clay soils are apt to bake. 



104 



THE PROCESS OF DILUTION OF CONCENTRATED 
LIME-SULPHUR SOLUTION. 



Prof. J. P. Stewart. 



The following- description and data are from 
Bulletin No. 99 of the Pennsylvania Experiment Sta- 
tion prepared by Prof. J. P. Stewart, whose work 
has been so beneficial to orchardists : 

THE HYDROMETER. 

This is an instrument much like that used in 
testing acids in dairy work, but with a wider range, 
and is used in determining the density of the con- 
centrate preparatory to the dilution. These instru- 
ments are made in two scales, the specific gravity 
and the Beaume, both of which may be placed on the 
same instrument. Densities are expressed by the 
former in decimals and by the latter in degrees. The 
Beaume scale is somewhat easier to read, but the 
other is more convenient to use, inasmuch as the re- 
ciuired dilutions can be obtained more directly from 
it. A desirable range is from 1,000 to 1.32 or 1.35 on 
the specific gravit}^ scale or from o to 35 degrees or 
38 degrees Beaume. Such instruments have been 
put up according to these specifications and are de- 
scribed herein. They are simple in use and indis- 
pensable in the accurate dilution of concentrated so- 
lutions. 

THE PROCESS OF DILUTION. 



In the application of any concentrate, either home-made or commercial, 
it is essential that a definite method of dilution be followed. Two solutions 
may look exactly alike and yet differ widely in density, so that any accurate 
method must be based primarily on the density of the concentrate that is being- 
diluted. ]\Ioreover,, we believe that recommendations based on the density 
of diluted spra}" are preferable to those based on the number of dilutions, 
even when accompanied by a statement of the concentrate's density. 

Accrirate dilution is very simple and easily accomplished with the aid of 
a hydrometer having a specific gravity scale. (The presence of foreign 
soluble materials or of much roily sediment in the sample will vitiate the test, 
a fact which must be taken into account — the former especially in solutions 
of unknown preparation. Also, for exact work the temperature of the con- 
centrate should be within about 10° of that stated on the outside of the 
instrument.) Sprays of any desired density may be obtained from any com- 
centrate by simply getting the reading of the concentrate and dividing the 
decimal of this reading by the decimal of the spray desired. For example, 
if the reading of the concentrate is 1.27 (about 31° Beaume), to get a spray of 
1.03 density we divide the .27 by .03 and obtain 9, which is the number of 
dilutions required and which of course is obtained by adding eight volumes 
of water. In this ve are snnply applying the general fact that the density of 
the solution heavier than water varies inverselv with the number of dilutions. 



105 




Adams Cuuxiy Yurk Imperials— "Xone Better Grown." 



POTATO GROWING IN YOUNG ORCHARDS. 



Samuel Frazer. OrcJiardisf, Gciicsco, X. Y. 



The question of growing a crop in an orchard is one which we 
can discuss and probably agree to disagree upon. The prime object 
in growing potatoes is to make monev. I am informed that your 
value of land is from S50.00 to S70.00 an acre. Your average yield 
of potatoes is somewhere near 90 bushels. So far as the value 
of the land is concerned you Avould be perfectly safe in using it 
for potato-growing. In fact, any land which will grow a good crop 
of potatoes and is under S200.CO an acre in value mav be used for 
that crop, while if the same land should rise in value so that it is 
worth S300.00 or S400.00 per acre and the yield should not be in- 
creased it is doubtful whether potatoes could be o-i'own at a profit. 

have then one other factor to consider and that is the question 
of yield. Is it adequate to cover the cost of production? How 
much does it cost to produce an acre of potatoes? After you 
have paid this item and the rent and the interest on the money 
have you anything left? If you have not there is no use growing 
potatoes. In this crop you have to compete with many sections 
which are particularlv adapted to Dotato-orowing. For instance. 
Xorthern Xew York, [Maine and parts of Xew England, so far 
as the main crop is concerned. 

In regard to earlv varieties. You are in competition with 
other states. It is a Question for each one to find out vdiether 
potato-growing is profitable for themselves. If potato-growing is 



io6 

not in itself profitable then it certainly shonld not be put in an 
orchard with the idea of ,2^ettino- a certain sum back to pay the 
orchard expenses. It is quite possible that you could charge off 
$8.00 an acre from the working expenses to trees, but I consider 
it is really unwise to try and grow the potatoes close to the trees. 
I would certainly leave 4 feet, the next year 6 feet, and later eight 
feet on each side of the row of trees. If the orchard be planted 
to fillers there is so little land left that I doubt whether it will pay. 
Orchards are worth so much more than potatoes that I would seri- 
ously question the avisability of growing some low yalued money 
crop in them. If the money crop grown is highly productive 
and does not draw too heavily upon the soil I think it would be 
better. Or, again, it might be better to run the orchards in the ex- 
tensive fashion, without a crop and concentrate on three of four 
acres on some other part of the farm and in this way earn suf- 
ficient money to carry the orchard. Or, we can look at the matter 
in another light, and that is, one which I use in almost all other 
crops, namely, you determine first whether you have or can secure 
enough money to grow the crop until harvest. If you undertake 
to grow radishes you may have to wait but six weeks ; if you at- 
tempt to grow potatoes you may have to wait four or five months ; 
if you plan to grow apples you have to wait six or seven years. I 
think it would be better to look at the subject from a business stand- 
point and try to get enough capital and get some way to carry the 
crop until it is ready to produce some revenue, and devote all the 
energy of the land to that crop. I hoped at one time that I could 
do otherwise, but I have been forced to this position by experience. 
I realize that my experience may be decidedly different from that 
of yours in this locality, and therefore, hesitate to advise you 
whether you should or should not grow potatoes in a young or- 
chard. In some sections of New York our growers report adverse- 
ly on growing potatoes, especially in peach orchards. They have 
had such poor results that they consider that they have lost two or 
three years growth of the trees, owing to the influence of the po- 
tatoes upon the peach trees ; and if a potato crop makes $10.00 
per acre, net, it is doing well, and in some cases we may get $20.00 
or more net ; but should that be secured by the loss of one peach 
crop or one apple crop we have a very large contra-account ; for 
the one apple or peach crop will probably be worth as much money 
to us as five potato crops. Then, as:ain, when a man is working 
potatoes there is a tendency to sacrifice the trees, which does not 
happen when there is no crop being grown. Another point with us 
is that we need or.eanic matter in the soil, and are not able to secure 
enough to grow profitable crops of potatoes unless we have a rota- 
tion of perhaps clover or meadow one or two years in four and the 
orchard does not lend itself very well to such a practice. 

To return to our first question that of cost of production, it 
might be wise to take one other crop as a sample. The U. S. De- 
partment of Agriculture has been determining the cost of produc- 
tion of certain crops in Alinnesota and they find that it costs about 
$6.00 an acre for labor, teams, seed, etc., to produce a crop of 
wheat. This does not include any charge for rent. If now, the 



I07 

land be worth $50.00 an acre it wonld take $3.00 an acre to pay the 
interest on the $50.00; therefore, this is a legitimate rental and 
would bring the cost of production to $9.00. If the land be w^orth 
$150.00 an acre our rental would be not $3.00 but $9.00 and our 
cost of production would be $15.00. If we secure no more yield 
on the Si 50.00 land than we do on the $50.00 we find it would 
become unprofitable to try and grow wheat ; for with an average 
yield of 14 bushels at $1.00 per bushel there would be nothing but 
loss ; so that we may say that with our present mode of farming 
no man can attempt to try and grow a profitable average crop of 
wheat on land worth more than $100.00 an acre. He simply must 
cast round for souie other type of farming. Our potato-growing 
involves a larger outlay for labor than wheat-growing. The im- 
portant thing to remember is that rent should not constitute more 
than a certain percentage of the total cost, so that any crop which 
involves considerable labor can be grown on higher priced land 
than a crop which involves little labor, and we find that potato- 
grow ing has its limit, that is, about $300.00 per acre. In other 
words, we cannot afford to pay more than $18.00 an acre rent for 
land for potato-growing, and with average yields, no man could af- 
ford to pay this. Xo 90-bushel crop of potatoes could aft'ord such a 
sum, in fact, it could not aft'ord to pay much more than $3.00 or $4.00 
rent. Orchard land on the other hand, with the large amount of 
labor involved and large amount expended for packages, frecjuent- 
ly running to $100.00 per acre or more, can pay a higher rent than 
potato-growing, and yet, not have the rent a higher percentage of 
the total expense. So that we are really trying to grow a crop of 
fruit trees which will warrant the expenditure of a considerable 
sum of money in order to secure returns as soon as possible, and, at 
the same time, trying to devote part of the same land to a crop 
which will not warrant anv such expenditure. This, however, is 
but one way in which the two crops conflict. The growing of po- 
tatoes gives no opportunity for the incorporation of a large c|uan- 
tity of organic matter. 

C. J. Tyson. Our method is to grow an early crop of potatoes 
this year and then seed the land to crimson clover and the clover 
is turned in the following spring and that year a late variety of 
potatoes is planted, the land being seeded to rye after this, which is 
in turn plowed under and the following year the system is con- 
tinued. In this way we incorporate organic matter and can grow 
our orchards. 

Mr, F. I am glad ^Ir. Tyson gave this, because it shows a 
method which has been evolved to meet this situation, and it really 
comes back to each individual to determine whether it pays or not. 
I merelv state the question as I see it and then w^ant you to figure 
it out for yourselves. 

I would like to give the figures which have been issued by the 
U. S. Department of Agriculture in regard to the cost of growing 
potatoes without fertilizer in Minnesota. 

The statistics given in the table were collected from a large 
potato and grain farm in Clav county. Northwestern Minnesota, 
where 300 to 400 acres of potatoes are grown annually. During the 



io8 

years 1902-7 no fertilizers were used. These figures allow no 
charge for superintendence, which might be permitted to pass on 
a. small farm where the farmer worked himself, but would be a 
factor on a large farm. 

Cost of Producing Potatoes on Unfertilized Land. 



Seed (12. 1 bus.) 5.804 

Plowing, 1. 190 

Harrowing, .184 

Cutting seed, .801 

Planting, .620 

Weeding (horse weeder), .544 

Cultivating, 3 times, .294 

Spraying, 3 times, .294 

Paris green, 1.282 

Bluestone, .528 

Digging, T.338 

Picking up 127 bus. at 3^ per bu. and board, 4.806 

Hauling and storing, 2.603 

Machinery cost, 596 

Land rental, 3.000 



26.366 

The actual cost of production was 21 cents per bushel. It is 
not stated whether the above yield was total crop or saleable, but 
if the former then the actual cost of saleable potatoes per bushel 
would be nearer 30 cents than 20 cents. I think you will agree 
that this cost is low. 

Cost of Producing Potatoes on Fertilized Land. 



Spring plowing, 1.017 

Harrowing, 4 times, .765 

Cost of seed (14.1 bus.), 8.472 

Cutting seed, .376 

Treating seed .120 

Corrosive sublimate, .277 

Planting .689 

Fertilizers, , 6.500 

Weeding, twice, .327 

Cultivating, 3 times, 1.814 

Spraying, 4 times, .446 

Paris Green, ^ 

Lime, 1.833 

Bluestone, ) 

Digging, 1. 8 10 

Picking up 162 bus. at 3^c per bu. and board 6.362 

Hauling, storing and sorting, 3-317 

jMachinery cost, .596 

Land rental 3.000 



37.721 

The interesting thing, however, is the fact that even when ferti- 
lizers were applied the cost of growing: a bushel was greater by 
2^ cents per bushel than when no fertilizer was applied. The in- 
crease was not sufficient to pay for the cost of the fertilizer. An- 
other point is that not all of the gain is saleable. I do not sup- 
pose the saleable potatoes were produced for less than 30 cents 



109 

per bushel. Do you think you can produce them for less? This 
last year in Xew York State we are being offered anywhere from 
-5 to 35 cents per bushel for our potatoes. You cannot grow them 
for that money ; our yield is not high enough. If you secure lOO 
bushels per acre of which 8o are marketable, and you get 50 cents 
per bushel you haye $40.00 per acre. Personally, I cannot grow 
potatoes for less than $50.00 per acre, and the ]\Iaine Station find 
that it costs them $69.00 per acre, but under their conditions eyen 
this expenditure was profitable at 50 cents per bushel, but not at 
30 cents. 

Ten-acre Field. 

Plowing at $2.00 per acre, 

Harrowing. 5 times, $3.00 per acre, 

Fertilizer (home mixture), $30.00 per ton, 

Seed (130 bus.) at 75c per bu., 

Disinfecting seed (labor and material), 

Cutting seed (by hand) at 6c per bu., 

Planting, team and 2 men, 3 days, $5.00 

Harrowing or weeding before crop is up, 4 times, 

Cultivating crop, 8 times, at $3.50, 

Spraying. 6 times, ($1.00 per acre each application) 

Hand hoeing and pulling weeds once (if necessary) 

Digging and hauling to storehouse or station at $15.00 per acre, 
Rent of land (5 per cent, on $50.00 per acre value), 10 acres, .... 
Depreciation of implements { plows, harrows, planter, sprayer, 
digger, etc.), value $250.00 at 10 per cent., 



Value of crop, 225 bus. per acre, (2,250 bus. at 50c), 

Value, per acre $112.50 

Cost of growing, per acre, 69.93 

Xet profit per acre, ' $ 42.59 

It will be seen that it cost 31 cents per bushel to produce the 
above crop. Just determine the actual cost and see if the business 
pays, whether it is worth bothering with. If it will not pay to 
grow potatoes alone it will not pay to bring them into the orchard. 

Member. How much commercial fertilizer will vou use? 

Mr. F. Ve have generally applied about 10 tons of manure 
with 600 pounds of mixed fertilizer made up of 100 pounds of 
sulphate of ammonia, 400 of acid phosphate, 100 of muriate of 
potash. We prefer the sulphate of ammonia to nitrate of soda. 

Member. If the crop costs as much to grow as we get out 
of it. may the gain be said to be the cultiyation and growth of the 
orchard ? 

Mr. F. We think if the trees be given a space of from 4 to 8 
feet on each side of the trees from the first year to the fourth that 
it would be leo^itimate to charge $8.00 per acre of the total expense 
against the field to trees. There is one thing you must remember, 
and that is. that we cannot incorporate the organic matter so well 
in the future as we can when the trees are young. You cannot 
grow it under the trees when the trees are well grown. 



$20.00 
17.50 

225.00 
97.50 
3.00 
7.80 
15.00 
10.50 
28.00 
60.00 
15.00 

150.00 
25.00 

25.00 



$699.30 
$1,125.00 



no 



Mr. Cohill. Do you think the potatoes have any effect upon 
the fruit? 

Mr. F. I do not know. I stated that it has been reported to 
have an injurious effect upon peach tres. I have not seen it upon 
apple trees. 

Mr. Cohill. \\'e have allowed our men to grow potatoes 
among some apple trees and it seems to have had a bad eft'ect upon 
the trees and the fruit. 

Mr. Nev^comer. \Miat would you suggest growing with fruit ? 
You want to make it self-supporting. 

Mr. F. I have tried growing crops to make it self-supporting, 
but have stopped. I tried potatoes one year, the next year grow- 
ing a cover crop and then the third year growing potatoes. They 
have just about paid their wav and that involves a certain amount 
more work for nothing. 

Mr. Anderson. Is there danger of fire blight due to the in- 
crease from fertilizers or putting too much fertilizer on the land? 

Mr. F. There is not with us. On a large proportion of the 
land we plant in New York it is necessary to bring the land up. 
I know that on sandy land in New Jersev there is much danger 
from fire blight if the trees be manured. We try to get the trees 
to grow all they will, and I hope to get them bearing as soon as 
we can. If they can be made to bear at six years, I would rather 
have them do so, even if their life be reduced to 30 or 40 years. I 
think it will be better than to have the trees act as they have for 
some of my neiohbors, that is. growing and never bearing any 
apples until 20 and the main consolation they have is that they will 
leave something to their grandchildren. I want them to do some- 
thing while I am alive, so that I can spend the money, rather than 
grow it for some other man to spend. I want them to be of 
some use to me. The tree then is mv crop. I find I am not big 
enough to look after the trees and several other crops at the same 
time, or else I am too lazy, so I am cutting out all of the extras 
that I possibly can. 

In years of plent)' we are boiuid to meet European competi- 
tion. In England I have seen some farms which would turn oft" 
average yields of 750 bushels per acre. These were produced so 
that everA^thing over 25 cents per bushel was gain. Thev can 
aft'ord to pa}^ our duty of 25 cents per bushel and the low freight 
charges and compete with us as soon as our prices go up to 70 
cents. The sea coast prices are never as high as those of St. Louis. 
This is one of the things we must consider in the potato-growing 
business. Three hundred bushels is as easilv grown as 100 is 
with us. 

Dr. Stover. Do you sow buckwheat? 

Mr. F. Sometimes. Frequentlv we sow crimson clover, with 
red clover with it as a cover crop in our orchards. 

Mr. Fiddler. How is a poor man going to grow trees without 
some crop between? 

Mr. F. The man must be a good financier. Do as the other 
men do in finance. AMien thev have an idea and lack capital : float 
the proposition. Or else, develop some other part of the farm 



Ill 



and make it carry it; or get some other crop than potatoes. If 
potatoes cannot be grown profitably, consider strawberries. 

Mr. Snyder. Do you ever have trouble with flea beetles on 
the apples ? 

Mr. F. Xo, we never have. 

Mr. Snyder. We have had trouble from the flea beetles leav- 
ing the potatoes and attacking the foliage of the apples. 
Member. Is pear blight contagious? 

Mr. F. Yes. It can be transmitted from the pear to the 
apple. For instance, if a knife or saw or pruning shears are used 
to cut oft an infected limb and are then used on the following tree 
the healthy tree may be inoculated. The tools should be disinfected 
in corrosive sublimate after each cut, or the cut should be disin- 
fected after it is made, whenever there is much fire blight preva- 
lent. 

One other difiiculty in potato-growing among apples is that 
for potato production, the land should be plowed deeply. Ten inches 
of deep soil is none too much for good potatoes. By giving such 
a plowing, especially if we approach closely to the trees we may 
do considerable damage. 

Member. Is it better to grow apples and potatoes with or- 
ganic matter than commercial goods ? 

Mr. F. In my case I needed organic matter. The texture 
of the soil was not good enough and fertilizers would not improve 
it. The land had been rented for a number of years and had been 
skinned ; it needed humus. This took time to grow or else one 
would need to put on large quantities of manure. Then land tend- 
ed to bake, but as soon as it became enriched with organic matter 
the tendency to bake disappeared. We needed organic matter both 
for apples and potatoes. 

Mr. Rinehart. Do you want plenty of organic matter for 
peaches ? 

Mr. F. We have not had any trouble in getting too much. I 
hesitate to answer the question for you in that way, because my 
conditions are not yours, and I cannot form an opinion of what I 
should tell you. 

Member. How much wood do your trees grow in one year? 

Mr. F. Apples will make 3 to 4 feet of wood. Greening is 
one of our best growers. One of our good trees is about 8 feet 
in diameter at three years old. Other varieties, such as Hubbard- 
ston, ]\IcIntosh and Wagner are small srrowers and would not make 
anything like this growth. There is one other question and that 
is in regard to the supply of seed. Whenever you put more labor 
on a crop or you put more time in spraying or apply more fertilizer 
it must be paid for, but it costs no more to plant a potato which 
is capable of giving 200 bushels per acre than it does to plant one 
whose maximum is 100 bushels. We know there are individual 
potatoes whose maximum yield is, say one pound, and there are 
others which can give us five pounds, and yet occupy no more land. 
It would seem to me that if one is going into potato-growing it is 
necessary to grow some of the best individuals. I do not say best 
varieties, because in my experience, there is just as much difl^erence 



112 



between the yields of individuals in a variety as there is between 
the varieties themselves. Therefore. I would urge you to consider 
this question. The ability of the in(li^ddual to produce a crop can 
be determined by trial. If you select i,ooo good potatoes or 500 
the method of operation would be about as follows : Take a piece 
of land no better or worse than the average and prepare it the same 
as for the rest of the crop. Prepare to plant by hand. Take the 
tubers to the field, having them, say 8 ounces each, so that they 
will make 4 nice sized sets. Plant them, probably 15 inches apart 
in the rows and leave a spcice of 18 or 20 inches between each 
four, that is, each individual potato will make 4 sets and will give 
you four plants. If you have 1,000 you will have 4.000 hills. 
By leaving a little space between every four there will lie less lia- 
bility of mixing wdien digging. Cultivate and S]n-a\- the crop as 
you h.ave done before and plan to dig it b}' hand, throwing the 
four hills from each individual together so that it will make a thou- 
sand piles. Now, carefully go over each and throw out all the ]X)or 
hills. Put all the good ones into individual bags or weigh them m 
the field, probably 10 will be found to produce a heavier yield than 
anv others. These should be kept bv themselves and all of the crop 
planted in a row, so that we have 10 rows, each planted with the 
progeny of one individual. If they continue to yield well these 
can be saved, but probably one or two mav loose in vigor. They 
will need to be dropped. Those wdiich hold up can be kept and put 
into a multi]ilying plot until enough can be secured for seed. If 
this be kcjn u]) each vear one will increase the productive ]:)Ower 
of his strain of potatoes. It has been shown bv this means that 
the yield can be increased considerably. There is one difiiculty 
wdiich immediately comes in in regard to the fruit grower turning 
potato grower. He probably intends to be a fruit grower and is 
merely using potatoes as a stop-^ap for a little while, and there- 
fore, it does not appeal to him to go ahead and reach the summit 
of the potato-growing profession, and it mav not appear to be worth 
wdiile to undertake such a piece of work as this outlined. This 
is one of the difficulties of the situation and one of the reasons 
why I feel that I cannot look after more than one or two things 
ancl need to contract rather than spread myself out over more. To 
be a success all one needs is to be able to grow one variet\- of one 
crop better than anvbodv else. 

There is one other problem, that is the securing of a good saw 
for pruning. We have had considerable diificultv but think we 
have a good tool now^ in the No. 20 Disston Pruning Saw. It is a 
modified No. 7 Ship Carpenter's Saw, which this firm has kindly 
changed at the suegestion of mvself and others. AA'e think it is 
a good tool. At the point it is but an inch wide, the back is hol- 
lowed ; it is 26 inches long and has the largest handle ever put on a 
saw, so that a man can use it with his mitten on his hand. 



113 




Adams Col'xty Strawbekries are Beautiful and Deetcious. 
CO-OPERATION IN MARKETING APPLES. 



Hox. S. L. LcPTox. IVinchcster, Va. 



Yonr president has invited me to talk to you tliis afternoon on 
"Co-o])eration in Marketing Apples," and, as on day before yester- 
day, 1 think I will ask to morlify the program and call my talk, 
''Co-0]jeration in Orcharding." Co-operation extends all through 
the business of rjrcharding, not only in the marketing of the fruit 
but in the growing of the orchard as well. I do not know just 
why your ];rL-idcnt wanted this discussion this afternoon unless 
because you lia\c failed, in your attempts at practical organization 
as we have done in X'irginia, or unless you have tried and succeeded, 
as we have not done in \ irginia. Mr. Cohill thinks the small apple 
grower wdll be put out of business by the large company or syndi- 
cate orchards. I believe that, if his business is ])n)])crl\' managed, 
the small fruit grower will, in tlie future, raise tlie Ijest fruit and 
secure the larger returns, provided he secures ])roper organization. 

There is quite a difference between fruit growing and ordinary 
farming. Alost farmers consider fruit growing, to some extent, as 
a side issue. In the first place, if any of you gentlemen have 50 
bushels of wdieat or a load of corn to sell, you bring this grain to 
the market and you are certain to get the market price for that pro- 
duce. You know the price of timothy hay. Xo matter how small 
\'onr cro]j may be. anrl no matter how little pains yc)U have taken 
to a->.certain tlie price, you get the market price. That is not so in 
fruit growmg. You raise your crop of fruit and you are ready to 
sell it, then it becomes at once a battle of wits betw^een you and the 
buyer. A^ou are at a loss wdiether to store, to sell it to a local buyer 
or ship it yourself. You have no notion where or to whom to ship. 
When you decide w^here to send the fruit you will likely strike the 
lowest market. 

Let u- see in what wa}' a fruit growers' organization can help 
us leaving out of consideration for the moment any question of 
selling the fruit. 



114 



A number of you may be planting trees in the near future. 
You have no co-operation. 

Each man is selecting his own orchard site and his own trees. 
AMiat mistakes is he likely to make? First the mistake of location. 
\Miat way could co-operation help the orchardist in selecting a 
location for his orchard? I take it that perhaps you may have 150 
acres of land and that you probably wish to plant part of that land 
in fruit trees. AMiose advice are you going to take? It seems 
to me the question of location is such a ver}- serious matter that it 
IS going to involve your whole career as a fruit grower. If you 
have expert advice here in your county, well and good. The 
chances are. however, that you do not have. Perhaps some of you 
do not agree with me in what I am about to say. but in view of the 
grave mistakes that I have made. I am very slow in taking any 
serious steps in advance without the advice of the Department of 
Agriculture, or the Experiment Station. Are you able as individ- 
uals to secure the services of an expert in soil conditions to come 
here and locate your orchard for you? You z^'ould be in position to 
secure such advice if ten. twenty or fifty of you need his services 
at the same time. You could not secure such help without an or- 
ganization. 

Suppose, again, after selecting the site of your orchard, you 
are troubled about where to buy the trees. AMiat you are most 
interested m is getting a sound, healthy tree. You are pestered to 
death by people who want to sell trees. You do not know whether 
to buy from a local nurseryman or from a nurseryman outside of 
the county or state. AVhat are you to do? Send for an expert 
again. Have this gentleman go to the nursery and select the trees. 
The large fruit grower can alford to do this. The small fruit 
grower cannot. 

I have been extremely fortunate in this regard, having spent 
the last twenty 3^ears in AA'ashington. I have been able- to secure 
the help of these men in my own individual work as I could not 
have secured it otherwise. The Government has a small experi- 
mental orchard plot on my place, where they have been experi- 
menting three or four years. They tell me what fertilizer is to be 
applied, the cover crops to be put on the land and tell me how to 
treat the trees. 

The result of that experiment on mv place has been an eye- 
opener to me. A year ago the fruit growers in the immediate 
neighborhood around Winchester held a field meeting in my orchard 
along in September. It was a most satisfactory meeting, and we 
were very much gratified indeed, that a great number of ladies 
came out from the city of AVinchester. 

When Dr. Waite wanted the experimental block in my orchard 
I told him I w^ould rather he would take some other man's orchard, 
because I did not want to be bothered. But, owing to certain con- 
ditions he thought he found there, he wanted to secure my place. 
The benefits have been so far in excess of any trouble that it would 
not do to mention it. After that meeting our fruit growers began 
to see things. 



115 

After we started picking apples it occurred to me to try an 
experiment. Our apple pickers, about fifty in number, were just 
ordinary laboring men, some could not read or write. ]\Ien who 
came down out of the mountains to help pick apples. I said to 
Dr. AA'aite. I am going to get all my laborers over here and let 
vou lecture to them just like you did to the fruit growers. Dr. AMiite 
has a very peculiar facility for expressing himself, so that any sort 
of intelligence can understand him. When the lecture began I saw 
at once that the men were intensely interested and every one of 
those men are better apple pickers to-day from that experience. 
They a^ked intelligent cpestions and seemed to understand what 
was going on. So much for expert information. 

The small fruit growers get anxious about selling, they do not 
kr.ow what they will get for their fruit. They want to sell just as 
soon as they can. One of my neighbors will sell his apples on the 
20th of August no matter what the price. If three or four more 
do that it breaks the market for the rest of us. It is customary 
with us to sell the fruit on the trees before picking time, usually 
contracting for the sale in August or September. 

One year when ten or twelve of us had about 25,000 barrels, 
and we tried to organize, all we could get the growers to do was 
to sign a paper agreeing not to sell their apples before the first of 
September. After seven or eight or ten of us had signed up 
controlling 20,000 or 25,000 barrels of apples, we carried that paper 
around the neighborhood to get some others not to sell their apples. 
The other growers said "Xo, we will not do that. We won't sign 
up with you because we may not be ready to sell when you are 
read}- and we do not know whether we want to take the price you 
do or not." 

Then everyone of those small growers subsecjuently did in- 
dividually, what they refused to do collectively, that is they said, 
"Those fellows have a big lot of fruit tied up until September i, 
and we will just wait until they sell and we will get just as much 
as they will and not tie ourselves up either." Nobody did sell 
until after the ist of September. There were 60,000 barrels of 
apples sold on that one da}'. A\'hen the buyers had bought our 
apples they claimed to have enough apples, did not want any more. 
Then there was a stampede amongst the little fellows. They could 
not sell their apples at our price and the majority had to sell for 
considerably less than the apples we sold on the first of September. 
We received S3. 50 to $3.65 in the orchard, and some as high as $4.00 
to S4.25. AA'e got a good, round blessing on account of our com- 
bine, and could not get a single man to sign up this year. 

Another thing happened that ought to be interesting. A gentle- 
man came to see me at Washington, to organize an association of 
fruit growers. The result of his visit to me was the organization 
of what has since been known as the \'irginia Fruit Growers Ex- 
change. About the same time there was organized, in the upper 
end of Mrginia, the Shenandoah Fruit Growers' Association. Be- 
tween those two associations, the one in the upper end of the valley, 
and the one in the lower end, there was 100,000 to 120,000 barrels 



ii6 

of apples tied up. The result of thist co-operation was that the 
apple prices sprung from $2.25 and $2.50 to $3.00 and $4.00, al- 
though the two organizations really controlled very Httle fruit. 

You gentlemen are very much interested in spray materials at 
this time. I found you talking exactly like our own people talk. 
One gentleman was asking the price of some brand of material. 
Another was asking what his neighbor was going to pay for ''Scale- 
cide." Another one what his spray machinery was going to cost. 
So many people talking about the price of things and so few 
about the value of things. I wish our people would talk more about 
the value of things and less about the price. Fruit growing is not 
a cheap man's job. Why could not an organization help us in 
buying our spray material and machines. 

One of the things all of us of this section need most, is the 
co-operation of an organization that will confine us to a standard 
pack. Let us forget that we are going to sell this fruit at all. Get 
up a series of co-operative organizations. Have delegates of every 
organization meet together and decide what the apple pack would be. 

Down in Virginia the apple buyers come from New Orleans and 
New York. Ten or fifteen were there in one season. Six were there 
yet when I left on Tuesday, of this week. One man came bring- 
ing five or six men with him and planning to hire fifteen or twenty 
more. Before we knevv^ it he had picked up six, eight or ten of our 
best workmen, and boomed the price of our labor. It has gotten 
so now that it is difficult to get experienced help because these 
apple buyers pick them all up. An efficient organization could own 
or at least help this situation. 

I believe I am the only growxr in Frederick county who does 
not have a man representing the buyer come in his orchard to 
superintend the packing. Under no circumstances will I have an- 
other man to come in my orchard to superintend my work. So 
far as I know, every man in the country permits a buyer's repre- 
sentative do this work. Please consider that these questions have 
nothing to do with the price. Forget price for the moment and 
remember that if we grow the right sort of fruit and put it up 
right it will sell itself. 

We know what a tremendous development in fruit growing is 
taking place out in the Pacific Northwest. It may be a great deal 
bigger from this point than if we were out there, but we know 
something about the character of their fruit, and the only thing 
that makes fruit growing possible in that country is the close ef- 
fective organization they have perfected. 

The object is to put the small fruit grower on the same level 
with the large one, and by combining to standardize the packing 
and grading of fruit. I am quite sure that there is no sort of dis- 
position on the part of any of our people large or small, to be jeal- 
ous. W^e should get together for the one purpose of standardizing 
fruit packing and packages of this whole eastern country, and you 
can't help but succeed, you can't help but realize the profits from 
such an organization. I do not know anything that has so injured 
the fruit business as the disposition, not only of the growers, but 



117 

the buyers who are just as bad, to deceive the pubhc by putting- 
good apples in the end of the barrel and bad ones in the middle. I 
never saw a barrel of apples fixed up in that way until some fruit 
buyer showed me how^ to do it. Please understand that I do not 
claim to be any better or more honest than my neighbor. This is 
not so much a question of morals as of plain business common sense. 

Last year I had a printed guarantee put in the package. The 
apples were uniform throughout the package and so guaranteed. 
I made a bargain that it was to be done that way yet during the 
picking season the buyer came out to my orchard a half dozen times 
insisting on my not putting that guarantee in the barrel. He said 
my apples were no better than other peoples apples, which was 
probably true and that the guarantee would interfere with the sale 
of the fruit he bought from other people. Maybe this will be true 
also but the guarantee goes in the future. 

It is going to take a year when we people here in the East, 
can't get but 75 cents or a dollar per barrel for our apples, and per- 
haps not that to make us organize. Then we will begin to sit up 
and take notice, but as long as we can get good prices for our apples 
then we are going to feel as independent as we have been feeling. 
But you certainly can get together on these other propositions that 
I have mentioned. I do not want to take up too much of your time 
because there are other gentlemen to speak, but let me express the 
hope that you will not understand or think that I have come to 
Pennsylvania to teach you a lesson. We have been in the business 
longer and the truth of the matter is we are having too good luck. 
We would be better off, in some respects, if did not have such 
good crops and such good prices, although I cannot say that I hope 
there will be a change in this respect. I have come here simply to 
tell you our own troubles, and I could like nothing better than to 
have some of you gentlemen to come down next year and tell us 
you have an organization that is doing something, doing good work. 
If anything that I have said can hasten that moment and bring it 
to anything like a success, you will rise up and call me blessed 
in the lean years which are sure to come ancl which without organ- 
ization will find you unprepared when they do come. 

C. J. Tyson. I think we owe Sen. Lupton special thanks for 
his address and hope that we are going to take it to ourselves and 
get a lot out of it. The experience he had along the line of guar- 
anteeing the pack is one that will work out splendidly. We have 
been using a similar arrangement for five or six years, stamping 
a guarantee on the head of the barrel. It has brought back inquiries 
for fruit and has worked nicely. If we start in with a determin- 
ation of that kind it is going to lead to our putting up fruit that will 
do as much for us as any co-operation we could get up. 

Question. Can you get experts in Virginia to pack apples 
in boxes? 

Mr. Lupton. We had, in our section this year, some few ex- 
pert apple packers. Some of them were very satisfactory and some 
were not. Some had worked at Hood River. I wish that, if you 
people have an apple crop, ten or twelve of you would get together 



ii8 



and hire an expert apple packer, and try the box package in a small 
way at least. 

Question. What would such a man cost? 

Mr. Lupton. We paid our man $3.00 per day and expenses. 
I think, to many of us, it was well worth the money, and I have 
seriously thought of sending or going to Hood River and getting 
an apple packer to come in here and pack our barrels. We had 
some men who got interested and there was a marked improvement 
in their work. The difficulty was in finding men who wanted to try 
to learn to do these things. 

Question. Do you have native help who can pack in boxes? 

Mr. Lupton. Very little. The apples that I brought here were 
packed by a packer from Florida. The best day's work he did 
was 80 boxes. Did it all himself. The apples were run through 
a grader- made by him. He had them graded in three sizes and 
claimed he could pack 100 boxes a day, and did pack 80 boxes in 
one day. 

Question. Do you put only one grade of apples in a barrel? 

Mr. Lupton. We try not to pack two grades in the same 
barrel. I presume our methods in this respect are slmfiar to your 
own, that is No. i fruit to be 2^4 inches and up and No. 2 fruit 
below 2^2 inches down as small as we can sell them. It has always 
been thought that it is impossible to grade apples with a mechanical 
grader, but I believe it can be done. It is certainly not convenient 
nor proper to have women and girls help us if we continue to pack 
in the o])en. as we now do, and I thiiik in the future we will have 
to build ])acking sheds and do our packing under cover. 

Question. How far do you think you can haul the fruit to 
be packed ? 

Mr. Lupton. I have 200 acres in one block and will put a 
packing shed in the middle of the orchard. If I could put a cen- 
tral plant at the railroad station the question might be solved. I 
understand, from several sources, that is being done in some cases. 
Hauling the fruit to the station to be packed would be all right 
if not too far and the roads were good. 




Apples From Un sprayed Trees. Large Pile, Culls. Small Pile On The 
Right, Saleable Fruit. (Photo by Peairs.) 



119 




Sprayed Once With Arsenate Of Lead And Bordeaux Mixture. 
Large Pile Not Wormy (Saleable), Small Pile Wormy. 
( Photo by Peairs.) 

PEACH GROWING IN MARYLAND. 



Aarox XHwccmER, OrcJiardist, Sinitliburg, Md. 

I would like to ask how many peach growers there are in the 
audience Please hold up your hands. Quite a few. I want to 
say this, but not in the way of flattery, if you can grow peaches as 
good as the apples you have here on exhibition you have a fine 
peach country. It looks to me as if you have good peach soil, one 
that will give the fruit high color and excellent cjuality and that 
is the only kind that it pays to grow. I have been growing peaches 
for about eight }ears. Naturally some mistakes have been made 
but I feel that we have learned some things that are of value to us. 
They may not apply to your localit}'. 

Location as to Elevation. 

In selecting a site for a peach orchard I would first consider 
the elevation. I prefer an altitude of from 725 to 1,000 feet above 
sea level. 

Member. Where would you go to find that elevation? 

Mr. Nev^comer. In any mountain section. 

Member. Do they not grow good peaches in the low sections 
of Delaware and New Jersey? 

Mr. Nevi^comer. Yes, but New Jersey has conditions which 
we do not. The ocean breezes temper the atmosphere. It does not 
get as cold there as it does here. We can grow peaches almost 
anywhere but we cannot produce the large, beautiful, high quality 
commercial peach with any success under 700 feet. I prefer an 
elevation of from 725 to i.ooo feet. 

Soil Adaptation. 

Another important matter to consider is soil conditions. For 
myself I would want one of three soil types ; either sandstone 
with a clay subsoil or a black slate with clay subsoil, or a deep 
chestnut slate soil with a mixture of sandy loam and clay as a sub- 
soil. I believe peaches will not do well on a rocky shale soil. I 



I20 



do not mean that peaches will not grow on other kinds of soil only 
that I have found the ones mentioned best for me in the order 
named. I traveled in five states two years ago prospecting for 
peach soil and finally came back to our South ^lountain district. 
\\> have the best soil and the best elevation. Peaches can be grown 
in the southern states but they do not have the flavor of ours. It 
is understood by a great many people that peaches will do best on 
a poor soil. I prefer the best I can get of one of the types men- 
tioned. It is possible to grow peaches on poor soil by fertilizing 
pretty well and growing lots of cow peas, crimson clover or red 
clover as a cover crop to turn down, but if the soil is naturally 
rich we avoid that expense. 

Preparing Ground For Planting. 

I like to plow the ground deep, 8 to lo inches, being careful 
to do a thorough job. It is then well harrowed with a spring tooth 
harro^^•. until a good seed bed is secured. The field is scored one 
way with a shovel plow making the furrows 17 feet apart. It is 
then marked out the other way with a bar shear plow with furrows 
20 feet apart setting the plow to run as deeply as possible. The 
trees are set exactly on the cross mark. Quite a few growers plant 
closer than 17x20 feet but we have learned that a closer planting 
is not best. One of my orchards was set 17x20 and another 18x18. 
We find the 17x20 best. It is covenient to spray and cultivate and 
later will have plenty of air and sunlight. 

Selection of Trees. 

It is quite a problem to kno\\' where to get exactly the kind of 
trees you want, of the right variety, true to name, healthy and vigor- 
ous. You should know your nurseryman. I prefer a tree 3 to 4 
feet or an early budded, June bud 3 to 4 feet if it is grown in the 
southern states or southern nursery. Examine your trees care- 
fully before planting to see that they are healthy and of right kind. 
You cannot always tell about the kind but can almost always dis- 
tinguish between a white and yellow peach, bv the bark. A white 
peach will have red bark on one side and dark purple on the other, 
while a yellow peach will have a rather bright yellow bark on one 
side and a reddish-brou n on the other. 

Varieties. 

If you are planting a commercial orchard in Adams county or 
in Frederick or A\'ashington counties, ^laryland. and wish to have 
a succession extending over a period of about 60 days I would not 
select over 8 to 10 varieties. If possible you should have enough 
of a variety or be able to combine with a neighbor so as to make 
enough to ship carloads. To do this, if you have 1,000 trees of a 
variety you can pick over 500 of them on alternate days. You can 
always do better in selling at home or in shipping if you have car- 
loads. With only local lots you are at the mercy of the commis- 
sion man unless as suggested before you can co-operate with neigh- 
bors to load full carloads. I think co-operation is one of the im- 



121 



portant things for the orchardist. Then if there is a good man at 
the selling end he can divert the cars after shipping and place them 
where they will bring the most money. For a succession I would 
use Greensboro. Carman. Hiley. Champion. Slappey. Belle Georgia, 
Captain Ede, Elberta. Late Crawford. 3*Iathe\vs Beauty, ]\Iunson 
Free, Fox Seedling, Geary's Holdon, Klondyke, Salway and Iron 
^Mountain. Salway does well high up on the mountain slopes where 
it does not mildew. Do not plant September peaches belo^\' 750 
feet elevation if you wish success. 

Pruning. 

Before planting I trim the roots that are broken and cut back 
those that are very long so as to make them uniform, always being 
careful to make the cut slanting on the under side of the root so 
that the cut surface will come into contact with the bottom of the 
furrow. It will callous over more readily and soon send out small 
feeding roots. If trees are planted in the Fall we do not trim 
tops till the following spring. Spring planted trees are pruned as 
soon as set. If a low-headed tree is desired, cut back the main 
stem to ten of twelve inches. If a high-headed tree is preferred 
cut to 28 to 30 inches. As the tree grows during the summer cut 
off all but 3 or 4 of the main branches which should be used for the 
future frame work of the tree. These main limbs should be trained 
to grow as nearly at an angle of 45° as possible, then the trees will 
be easily sprayed and the fruit can be nearly all picked from the 
ground without the use of a stepladder. All centres should be kept 
cut out to admit sunlight. 

Cultivation. 

The first and second years after planting the orchard, 
I plow it with a barshear plow following with spring tooth har- 
row and plant to corn, potatoes or cantelopes, to make the orchard 
self-supporting till it comes into bearing, which is usually the third 
year after planting. The following years, when the orchard is 
in bearing, we give only shallow cultivation with a spring tooth or 
disc harrow. This cultivation commences as early in spring as 
possible so as not to endanger bloom and tender fruit, in case of 
cold \\ eather. \\q cannot begin much before ^larch 20th without 
danger. On one occasion I had part of an orchard harrowed when 
the weather was cold and had a lot of damage on the cultivated part 
and none on the other portion. The cultivation seemed to lower the 
temperature to the danger point. Wq continue the cultivation every 
four or five days until the 15th of July. In this way a fine crop of 
peaches can be grown and a lot of strong hardy fruit buds developed 
for the next year's crop. 

Maintaining Fertility. 

I believe in fertilizing the trees well. A fertilizer which con- 
tains 2 per cent, of Nitrogen, 8 per cent, of Phosphoric Acid and 10 
per cent, of Potash seems to be a good balanced fertilizer. I use 
from 500 to 1.000 pounds of this mixture per acre annually, com- 



122 



niencing the second year after the orchard is planted. As a cover 
crop and to assist in maintaining fertiUty I use crimson clover, win- 
ter vetch and cow peas. These add much in the way of humus or 
vegetahle matter. 

Spraying. 

As a remedy for San Jose scale I would use home-made Con- 
centrated Lime-Sulphur solution — 15 pounds Sulphur, 20 pounds 
Lime or some good brand of Concentrated Lime-Sulphur made by 
a reliable firm. I tried Scalecide and Target Brand Oil on a large 
scale and it nearly put us out of business. Quite a lot of trees 
were killed and a lot more were injured so that it A\ill take some 
time for them to recover. You cannot grow peaches without 
spraying them well. As a summer spray for fungus diseases we 
have been xQvy successful with Bordeaux mixture — 2 pounds Blue 
Stone, 6 pounds Lime to 50 gallons of water. \A'e are thinking of 
trying some home-made Concentrated Lime-Sulphur the coming- 
summer. 

Thinning. 

A\^e always thin the fruit hard. One year took oil over 4,000 
bushels. We were at it three weeks. The neighbors said, "Xew- 
comer is a crank," but we had nice fruit. By thinning the fruit 
so that peaches are from four to six inches apart on the limbs we 
grow fine large specimens for fancy packing which bring highest 
prices. If you are doubtful as to the wisdom of thinning try it on 
six Elberta trees leaving the next six unthinned and note closely 
the result at picking time. The improved condition of the present 
crop is not by any means the only advantage of thinning. Per- 
haps the most important of all is the protection of the tree against 
breaking as it is almost sure to do when overloaded, and against 
the robbing of vitality Avhich would impair its future usefulness. 
Do not wear out your trees by allowing them to over-bear. 

Picking and Packing. 

AMien harvesting the crop, all fruit is hauled to the packing 
house. I very much prefer ladies to do the packing. AA'ould not 
give a cent for a man to pack peaches for me. Never saw a grower 
yet who could pack peaches like a lady. She has more taste and 
neatness about it, and will put up packages that will sell for more 
money every time. We use the half-bushel Delaware basket and 
the Georgia Carrier. All fancv and extra fancy grades are packed 
in carriers. 

Member. Do you use a grading machine ? 

Mr. Newcomer. If the peaches run clean of rot and defects 
the grader works well. Otherwise hand grading is best. 

Member. Does not Salway mildew and crack? 

Mr. Newcomer. Salway does not crack or mildew on high 
elevations, 800 to i.ooo feet. 



123 




How TJiE York I:\rpERiAL CjK' .. - , x Adams County 
(Every Apple Perfect.) 



SOILS OF THE SOUTH MOUNTAIN DISTRICT AND 
THEIR ADAPTATION TO VARIETIES OF APPLES. 



H. J. Wilder. 



It is difficult to describe in a half hour's time the adaptation 
of various kinds of soil to the many varieties of apples. A\ e are 
not accustomed to talk about the soil even though trvino; to get 
our living from o-rowing crops in it. A\^e are not vet in the habit 
of thinking in soil terms. Some dav we shall do this. And the 
growers of special crops, the fruit grrowers, the vegetable growers, 
ets., w^ill be the first to realize the need for so doing. The numer- 
ous requests for soil facts that come to the Bureau of Soils from 
leading orchardists indicate that the desire for a much more inti- 
mate knowledge of the soil is alreadv here. But meanwhile it is 



1^4 

no easy matter to come at once to a common understanding so 
that a o-iven statement means the same thing to all of iis. So to- 
day I am going to talk hrst about soils in general leaving the mat- 
ter of type adaptation until later. 

In studying soils, a- in other things, we begin by making a 
few large groups. Thi- is commonly done by classif}"ing the rocks 
from which the soils have been derived. Thus we have limestone 
soils, sandstone soil^. shale soils, granitic soils, etc.. and in that 
part of the South Alountain district in this immediate vicinity you 
have manv liner divi-ions. even, -uch as white hint." "gray hint."" 
■"copperstone."" "mountain -tone."" etc. A p"roup of soils is desig- 
nated by the soil series name. Thus the vallev limestone soils were 
named the Hagerstown series because thev were hrst mapped in the 
vicinitv of Hagerstown, Md. And in similar manner other names 
have been selected to designate main o-i-oup> or series of soils. 

Leavm.o; the stone content and the gravel content out of con- 
sideration we are accustomed to speak of soih as clays, sands and 
loams, or some combinatiijn the-e terms such as sandy loams, 
clay loams, etc. Adiat d'^ thc-e term- mean? Analvsis of a true 
clay will alwavs sh^jw that the per cent, of exceedingly hue particles 
is relatively high and where the amoimt is as much as 35 per cent, 
of the soil ma-s it eives to the soil a dehnite character, in fact 
seems the determinirg factrir in the wav the soil behave^- vdien 
worked. If plowed or cultivateil when wet such a soil will cV"\ 
badly. Soils are sometime- found which analyze as much as 50 
per cent, of clav. btit I know of none so heavy in this state. A soil 
that would be maoDcd as a -and. on the other hand, is compo-ed 
principally of particles much c^r^arser than the grains of clay. 
Through such a S'jil water r'erc'jlate- rapidly and we think of it as 
a drouthv soil. Ilctween the-e twc extreme-, then, of sand and 
clay, the coarsest soil particles and the hne-t there is a wide range 
of sizes. A trtie loam is a mixture of a large number of ditterent 
sized particles. It is a medium mixture in which clay, medium 
and fine sands and silt are well balanced. AMien there is a little 
too much sand for this medium mixture of loam the soil is called 
a sandv loam, but where there is a little tc>o nuich cla_\y for the 
same classification the soil is called a clav loam. This phase of 
classification, as von will note, i- based solely on the size of the 
. soil .grains, and determines the so-called texture of the soil. 

But there are also stifi:' soils, mellow soils, mealv S':als. and so 
on. This is brought about bv a difir'erence in the jrrajijcijiciit of 
the various sizes of soil particle-. Tw- -'T:- mav analyze practi- 
cally the same. /. c, their textures mav show no material ditter- 
ences and vet after a rain the nr.e has to be dried out much more 
thoroughly than the other before it can be w^rtrked without cl':'d- 
ding. This is due to the difir'erences in the -oil structure. Supp^r^-e 
we reduce this to fractions having a common denominator, as we 
used to do in school. Some of vou have tried packing apples in 
boxes, and until experience has been acquired it is not easv to come 
out even. If all apples were of the same size it would be an ea-y 
matter. But there are all sorts of variations in size, and it takes 
patience to work out the best combination. Apples of difi"erent 



125 

sizes have to be arranged to fill a given space, and there is almost 
no limit to the number of combinations that could be made if we 
did not assort and pack according to standard grades. 

Now soil particles vary as much in size, relatively, as do ap- 
ples, and hence the soil mixture is exceedingly uneven. All sorts 
of combination packs have been made and in some of them the 
particles fit together so snugly that they do not readily crowd apart 
when a little rootlet tries to find its way down among them. And 
remember that in plant and tree growth a tiny rootlet always has 
to blaze the path downward into the soil, the big strong root being 
a later development. Stiffness, or its opposite mellowness, depends 
upon the arraiigoucut of the soil grains and not upon their si^e; 
upon the structure, not upon the texture of the soil. 

Contrary to common opinion the most clayey soils are not the 
stift'est soils. Bricks are not made of clay alone, but of a rather 
definite mixture of clay and particular grades of sand. Sometimes 
we find subsoils that approach in varying degree a bricklike com- 
position. If brought to the surface by the plow, exposed to the 
air and left undisturbed for a short time the clods bake, and then 
are reduced with much difficulty. This could be prevented at the 
surface if the harrow had followed the plow closely, and if stable 
manure or other organic matter had been mixed with the soil, but 
a deep subsoil of this sort is not so easily improved nor is it in- 
viting to a well-branched fibrous root system. The root systems 
of some varieties of apples, furthermore, overcome a stiff structured 
subsoil much more successfully than others. In one of the large 
orchards of the southern Ozark country Ben Davis trees failed in 
certain spots. They were very unthrifty and not infrequently 
died. Yet elsewhere in the same row, with identical slope, exposure 
and treatment the trees were in excellent condition, and bore heav- 
ily. The owner believed, too, that there could have been no varia- 
tion in the stock. An examination of the subsoil showed it to be 
exceedingly stiff wherever the trees were effected. Following this 
cue throughout the orchard it was found that another variety 
(Mammoth Black Twig) was not effected at all by the stiff sub- 
soil as the roots forced their way down through it, and the trees 
showed excellent growth. Not satisfied that the chemical condi- 
tion of the soil in this case might not have some influence upon 
the unthrifty trees I had made chemical analyses of these soils, 
but the results showed that there were no chemical differences worth 
noting. In this particular case it was anoarent that the Ben Davis 
would not thrive on so stiff a subsoil, whereas the Mammoth 
Black Twig could successfully overcome it. 

I do not need to call vour attention to the self-evident fact 
that the condition of this subsoil was not amenable to practicable 
improvement by the addition of humus, notwithstanding the fact 
that by this means surface soils may to some extent be changed. 
In a less pronounced case the growth of deep-rooted crops such as 
the legumes would have sreatlv improved the phvsical condition 
of the upper subsoil, but once the orchard is planted, or at least 
after it has reached bearine aee, the practical orchardist will hardlv 
try to leave cover crops under his trees so many months of the 



126 



growing season that their root systems will be sufficiently developed 
to add humus to the lower subsoil. Yet the roots of a well-de- 
veloped apple tree reach far into the subsoil. 

The roots of plants and trees do not get their moisture from 
free ground water, /. c, water that may flow out in surface streams 
and underdrains. but from the thin films of moisture that surround 
every soil particle. This moisture is caUed capillary water. A 
tree can get no plant food from the soil except as it is obtained m 
dissolved form, not in free ground water but in the soil film or 
capillary moisture. H(pnce the importance of the texture and 
structure of the subsoil, as well as that of the surface soil is at 
once apparei:t. 

I have indicated some of tlie main factors considered in the 
study and classification of soils. A\dien studying soils in the field 
we follow out the crop results as related to and depending upon the 
soil conditions. Thus we are enabled to compare crop results as 
influenced by a large number of soil variations and to draw some 
conclusions in regard to the adaptation of certain soils to certain 
crops and to different varieties of the same crop. 

Having dwelt at some length upon the importance of soil se- 
lection, I want to call your attention at this point to the fact 
that the character of the soil upon which a crop is o;rown is only 
one of several factors necessarv for successful crop production. 
Climatic conditions embracing not onlv absolute temperatures, but 
also the rainfall, air drainage, soil drainage as influenced by topo- 
graphy — the onlv kind considered until recently — elevation both 
above sea level and with reference to local topography, fertiliza- 
tion, and care of orchards are all important. No one of these 
factors may be studied effectively unless the other factors influenc- 
ing production can be balanced. So soil comparisons can only be of 
value when the other conditions are equalized, and to do this a 
large number of field comparisons is essential. The adaptation of 
varieties of apples to.tvpes of soil can be studied with hope of ar- 
riving at definite results only bv considering first the behavior of 
specific varieties upon specific well-defined types of soil. 

In the South ^Mountain reo"ion vou are somewhat restricted in 
the number of commercial varieties of apples that have proved to 
be both hardy and profitable, and that possess at the same time as 
good qualitv as a group of growers of A^our standing wishes. There 
is nothing strange in this for until recentlv we have alwavs been 
satisfied with whatever varieties we might have, hence little effort 
has been made to test other varieties under local conditions. Bar- 
ring a few sections in the eastern United States which seem to 
h.ave been blessed with varieties to fit their conditions without much 
effort on their part, growers are seeking to-dav additional varieties 
that will yield well and also be of hieh qualitv. York Imperial has 
been the money-maker in your district, and until you have more 
profitable sorts of better qualitv than you now have, it must con- 
tinue to occupv an important place in vour commercial plantings. 
The York apple has been severelv arraigned because of poor qual- 
itv, and as sometimes s'rown the reputation is in some degree mer- 
ited ; but on the other hand, it is a verv good apple when grown at 



127 



its best, and at least has iiotliino- to fear from such as the Ben 
Davis group. 

If the tendency of the York to be coarse in texture could be 
in some degree overcome an important advance would be made. As 
grown in some parts of central Pennsylvania where the climate is 
a little colder than in the southern part of the state its texture is 
much finer, and in following this variety to its northern limits 
where superseded by the New York varieties, the flesh is much 
closer, more solid and compact than with you, but the apple is not 
so large. There are several good sorts moreover, to take its place 
there and so it is not planted to any great extent. You cannot 
bring that climate here, but you can select those subsoils which have 
such water holdino- capacity that their temperature will make up 
in part for those climatic conditions, and thus be of material assist- 
ance in growing a finer textured York apple. 

Dr. A'oorhees in an address to the New Jersey Horticultural 
Society last year (see page 153 of New Jersey Horticultural So- 
ciety, 1909) said he thought color to be largely dependent on 
climate and sunshine, but to some extent the presence of iron might 
assist. In heartv accord with this it seems to me that attention has 
not been cahed to one of the most important factors, unless Dr. 
A'oorhees meant to include it under the general heading "climate," 
and that hardlv seems probable. There are certainly two condi- 
tions of climate in which everv tree finds itself trying to grow, viz., 
the one above the surface of the ground and the other below. The 
former is much easier to observe than the latter, and to it much 
thought and studv have been given. But soils vary greatly in their 
capacity to hold water, and this variation depends largelv upon the 
texture of the soil, /. c, upon the size of the soil particles. 

But the structure of the soil also plays an important part in 
determining in many cases the moisture conditions, though that is 
not necessarily its most noticeable effect on tree growth. Soil tem- 
peratures depend largely on the water-holding capacity of the soil. 
The soil particles warm up in the spring much more readily than 
the water contained in the soil. So does the humus, but the rela- 
tively small percentage of it in any good fruit soil makes it a factor 
of lessor importance as far as its temperature is concerned. Conse- 
c{uently a soil that holds the most water is the last in the spring to 
become warm enough for the plantino- of crops. Hence we com- 
monly call a sand a light soil because it is ready to work early in 
the season, whereas clay is considered a heavy soil because it retains 
moisture well and cannot be worked until later. As a matter of 
fact, the opposite is true so far as the weights are concerned, a 
given volume of sand weighing more than, an equal volume of clay. 

If, then, subsoils well-drained from free water be selected 
within the York region that carry a maximum of capillary water 
their temperatures will be sensibly lower, especially during the 
mid-summer months, than those of lighter textured subsoils that 
carry less capillary water. In this way slight check to raoidity of 
growth may be effected and thus give to the fruit a somewhat finer 
texture. 



128 



To obtain, then, the best quahty of York Imperial consistent 
with heavy yield and good exterior appearance this variety should 
be planted, I believe, on a heavy well-drained soil. A mellow clay 
loam surface underlaid by clay loam or even clay in this region, 
so long as it is not stiff enough to prevent the ready penetration 
of the roots, would be particularly desirable. The elevation of 
South Mountain above the surrounding countrv is undoubtedly 
a desirable factor, though its superiority over the lower slopes of 
the same range could hardly be verv marked where the soil condi- 
tions are equaHzed. 

There are no soils in this vicinity too heavy for the York Im- 
perial. Hence I would suggest that the heaviest or most clayey 
soils be selected for this varietv, where drainage is good and at 
the highest local elevation available. The Cecil soils as mapped 
in the Adams County Soil Survey, especially in the northern part 
of the county, the heavier parts of the Porters loam and the Porters 
stony loam, the Alont Alto loam and stony loam are very desirable, 
and the heavier members of the Leesburg, the Duffield, the Hagers- 
town and the Penn soils where the elevation is sufficient are also 
good, ranking in the order named. The ]\Iont Alto, Leesburg and 
Duffield soils were not mapped in Adams county, but they occur 
not far north and west of South ^fountain, and have been mapped 
this season on the Reconnoissance Soil Survev of South Central 
Pennsylvania. 

The Stayman is so near the crest of popularity at the present 
time that it is being planted extensively in many parts of this state 
regardless of conditions, either of climate or of soil. It is un- 
doubtedly a very desirable acquisition to the list of varieties suited 
to this immediate vicinitv and in general to southeastern and cen- 
tral Pennsylvania, but I doubt whether it is any more cosmopoHtan 
as to soil and climatic conditions than several other well established 
sorts, such as the York and Baldwin. 

The Stayman has given its best results, as observed up to this 
time, on soils of mediumi texture that are not above the average in 
productivity, and on medium to heavy sand}^ loams. The tree is 
naturally strong in growth hence its vegetative habit should not be 
intensified bA' an excessively rich and productive soil. The color 
of the fruit is verv liable to be deficient, hence moist rich loams and 
clay loams should be carefully avoided. The variety has shown a 
tendency this year to crack open just ahead of picking season, and 
while the damage has not been heavv, neither is the indication re- 
assuring. Very likely this tendency is due in part to w^eather con- 
ditions of the present season, but I want aeain to call vour attention 
to the climatic conditions maintained by the soil and subsoil, espe- 
cially the latter, and that the roots of a tree are in a verv definite 
climatic environment which is locallv controlled largely by the water- 
holding capacity of the subsoil. The latter in turn depends princi- 
pally upon the texture and structure. The bursting of apples on 
the tree is generallv attributed to a too rapid growth, except as 
it may be a varietial tendency. Early seasonal growth is obtained 
on sandy soils, but the strongest vegetative growth the season 
through is obtained from rich moist loams. From such soils large 



129 



apples may be obtained but the color is inferior. For these reasons, 
then, would I select soils for the Stayman as previously described. 
In the Porters soils the lio^htest areas that are also the most thor- 
oughly drained are to be preferred. The highest elevations in the 
Penn loam and Penn shale loam should also give very fair results. 
^^llere ]\Iont Alto soils are to be used the lightest of this series 
available, or the heavier areas where well drained, will undoubted- 
ly give a well-balanced growth of tree and fruit. On the other 
hand, the AJont Alto soils of medium texture that are more highly 
productive seem especially well adapted to Grimes, a variety that 
needs encouragiement in tree growth. The Porters and other soils 
a little heavier are also adapted to this variety. Grimes seems not 
sufficiently vigorous to overcome a stiff subsoil, although the sub- 
soil must be clavey enough to maintain a steady supply of moisture. 
A mellow or plastic clay loam best supplies this condition, and the 
fruit from such soils is slightly better in keeping qualities than 
that from lighter mellow soils. The soil requirements of the 
Grimes differ markedly from those of the York which will thrive 
on a much stiffer subsoil than the Grimes. 

Jonathan holds a good deal of oromise for this section. Its 
high qualitv and the strong demand for it when well grown make 
it a very desirable sort. As ,s:rown in the north, that is, in New 
York and in northern Pennsylvania, at least, its size is somewhat 
disappointing. In the southern Ozark countrv it is a magnificent 
apple. It is the one commercial sort which has been fully tested 
there that can compete in quality with Pennsvlvania apples. In 
West Mrginia it varies greatlv in size dependine on conditions. 
The tree has not a strong growing habit, and the further north it is 
grown the smaller the fruit, when grown under comparable condi- 
tions. A deep mellow warm soil such as the so-called Pine Lands 
the other side of South ^Mountain — named the Leesburg series dur- 
ing this season's work — is well adapted to the Jonathan. Care- 
fullv grown on a soil of that kind I believe a satisfactory growth 
of tree mav be secured, and that the fruit will meet requirements 
both for size and for color. 

Smokehouse is another sort of high qualitv that grows well 
on light to medium soils. The soil must be well drained, and if 
also somewhat porous fruit of better color is secured. Such a soil 
may be put in a productive condition, but care should be exercised 
in applying nitrogen as an excess of this element makes it difficult 
to secure good color. 

I will mention three other varieties that seem well worth con- 
sidering, though I have relativelv little data concerning them. One 
of these is the Arkansas Black which is doing verv well in some 
cases. It is dull in color but is fairlv s:ood in qualitv and has been 
profitable in some cases in southeast Pennsvlvania. For it I would 
suggest medium to light soils in an experimental wav ; and similar 
soils will give very good results with the Stark. W. S. Adams, of 
this countv. has had experience in growing: the Stark on the Porters 
soils, and finds the color rather dull, but when grown at its best the 
Stark is dull in color, and it is not improbable that it mav be grown 
fairly well in this section, especiallv on the Pine Lands. It has 



130 



the advanta.^e of keepino later than most other varieties except the 
York. 

A third variety which has given fairly good results under con- 
ditions similar to yours is the Langford Seedling. The fruit is of 
medium size, red in color though a little dull, and it is fairly good 
in quality. If one cares for an apple of this type it is worth trying, 
especially on your medium soils at the lower altitudes, such as the 
Penn loam, Penn gravelly loam and Penn shale loam. 

Good Baldwins are only grown where climatic conditions some- 
what colder than yours obtain. These are found this far south 
only where higher altitudes compensate for the distance south of 
normal Baldwin conditions. This makes it possible to grow Bald- 
wins at altitudes higher than yours along the Blue Ridge in north- 
ern Virginia. In both places it becomes a fall apple and as such 
is not as desirable as where it remains a true winter sort. In 
northern Pennsylvania, New York and New England where it is 
at home, this variety is best grown on deep friable loams and heavy 
sandy loams witii loamy subsoils. Farther south heavier soils are 
better. I hope you will soon find as a result of thorough tests a suf- 
ficient number of good commercial sorts so that you will not need 
to use Baldwin, and I believe that in time this will be done. It is 
well not to try to beat the other fellow at his job, and that is about 
what you are trying to do in growing- Baldwins. 

Your President asked me to talk about local conditions so far 
as possible and this covers, I think, your most important varieties. 

To illustrate further the range of soil adaptation to specific 
uses it may be worth while to mention the effect of soil influence 
on some other crops. In the Connecticut Valley of Massachusetts 
and Connecticut, for instance, the character of the soil has been 
the determining factor in crop selection. You will nardon me, I 
am sure, if I select to illustrate conditions there, my father's farm 
where most of my life was spent until 21 years old, and where I 
have been able to follow closely the croDoing conditions and man- 
agement until the present time. It is a long rectangular farm 
that is typical of soil conditions over a broad scope of territory. 
Three types of soil are found, as illustrated in the following dia- 
gram. ( See Fig. i ) . 

The soils are all alluvial, the range in elevation is in onlv one 
case as much as 15 feet, and within any one of the soil divisions 
the surface is nearly level. 

The fine sandy loam at the west end of the farm is the best 
type of soil for wrapper-leaf tobacco, though worthless for the pro- 
duction of filler leaf, hence a normal price is $150.00 to $200.00, 
or even more, per acre. It is also a good onion soil but brings no 
more profitable returns from that crop than the loam at the east 
end of the farm which, with the same culture treatment gives a 
cigar leaf so much thicker and poorer in quality that no one longer 
persists in trying to grow tobacco on it. Hence, a relative price 
for this soil type is $100.00 an acre, where the location is in every 
way equal to the other. The silt loam in the middle of the farm 
is worthless for tobacco, mediocre for onions, and so used almost 



131 

exclusively for corn and grass. As a result its price is $50.00 to 
S75.00 an acre. 

Length of Farm 



WEST 



Vs mile 



ilt loam 



Corn and 
Grass 



S50 to S75 an 



^ mile 



Fine sandv loar 



Tobacco and onions 



S200 an acre 



■8 mile (/ % mile 



Silt loam 



Corn and 
^ Grass 



#50 to $75 
an acre 



Loam 



Onions, Corn, 
/ Grass but 
no Tobacco 



iioo an acre 



EAST 



Terrace Ascent Terrace Descent Terrace Ascent 
30 feet 10 feet 15 feet 



Fig. I. Showing diagram of farm located in the Connecticut River Valley and including in its extent 
three distinct soil types. Double lines represent Public Highways. 



It should be noted, too, that the best of the tobacco lands con- 
tain the very low organic content of 1.5 to 2.75 per cent., notwith- 
standing plentiful applications of stable manure. Hence the nat- 
ural adaptation of that soil does not depend, it need hardly be said, 
on the organic content ; neither may other soils of that locality, 
such as the loam at the east end of the farm mentioned, be so 
amended by the addition of humus as to produce leaf satisfactory 
in quality. Yet it is just as favorable as the first for the growth of 
cigar leaf in every respect save that of texture and structure. 
Here, then, is a very definite illustration of how the physical char- 
acter of the soil has not only been the determining factor in the se- 
lection of specific crops for the different types of soil on a given 
farm, and for a linear distance of at least 75 miles in two states, 
but these specific adaptations to special crops have in turn been the 
principal basis of land valuation there for the last half century. 

This case is not unique. There are many cases in different 
states which illustrate the same principle of soil adaptation and 
definite soil requirements for the best results. These are not 
theories but facts based upon and demonstrated by well-developed 
agricultural practices. 

In view of these facts it does not seem strange that our fruits 
also should give a wide range of results as grown on different soils, 
and that equal results with a given variety of apple, for instance, are 
not obtained from diverse soil conditions. 



132 



SPRAYING 




your fruit trees with a good spray 
pump assures results. 

When you buy, get the Be^. A 
good spray pump earns big profits 
and lasts for years. 

The "ECLIPSE" 

is a good pump. As pradlical fruit growers we were 
using the common sprayers in our orchards— found 
their defecfls and then invented THE ECLIPSE. Its success pradlicahy forced us 
into manufacturing on a large scale. You take no chances. We have done all the 
experimenting. Large, fully illustrated catalogue and Treatise on Spraying FREE 

MORRILL & MORLEY 

BENTON HARBOR, MICHIGAN 



GrasselH 

ARSENATE OF LEAD 



+ + * 



GrasselH 

Lime Sulphur Solution 

Extensively used wherever fruit is grown. 

Distributors in all consuming districts. 

Write for name of nearest distributor. 

THE GRASSELLl CHEMICAL CO. 



811 Bessemer Bldg. 
PITTSBURG, PA. 



2143 N. American Street 
PHILADELPHIA, PA. 



CD 



134 



THE ORIGINAL GRIMES GOLDEN APPLE TREE. 

Historical Sketch as given by Hon. Henry C. HervEy in 1906. 



The Grimes Golden is a seedling which originated on the farm of 
Thomas Grimes, situated about three miles east of Wellsburg, on the Wells- 
burg pike, in Brooke County, West Virginia. Thomas Grimes, Jr., sold the 
farm about the year 1874 to Dr. J, W. Gist, who was my father-in-law. I 
have seen the original tree often. 

I was chairman of the Horticultural meeting held at Wellsburg in 1896. 
I met Profs. L. C. Corbett and A. S. Hopkins, of the State Experiment 
Station, going out to see the tree as I was going to Wellsburg to attend the 
meeting. When they came back I asked them what condition the tree was 
in and they said it was on the decline. Councilman told me the other day 
that it was lying on the ground dead. 

I am now sixty-four years old. I remember the tree for at least fifty 
years. When I was a boy these apples were prized and my recollection is 
that about fifty to sixty years ago people in this section began planting graft- 
ed trees. My father planted an orchard about the time of grafted fruit. At 
that time people went to Wood's Nurseries, some place in Ohio, from this 
section in wagons and my recollection is that about that time the Grimes' 
Golden got into the market and w^as named Grimes' Golden after the man 
on whose farm it originated. 

Dr. J. H. Funk, of Boyertown, Pa., in "Fruits for Pennsylvania," refers 
to Grimes' Golden as follows : 

"Introducing this variety, Mr. S. B. Marshall, of Massilon, Ohio, con- 
ferred a blessing upon posterit}^ that cannot be estimated. This beauty is 
among the apples what Seckel pear is among the pears — the standard of ex- 
cellence. Tree vigorous, healthy, spreading and very productive ; the tree 
comes into bearing at an early age. The one weak point in this variety is 
stem blight or canker ; when trees are purchased from the nurseries root- 
grafted, they are short-lived, seldom living over twenty years ; but this can 
be avoided by top working on some strong growing variety. 

''Fruit above medium, cylindrical, regular ; surface yellow, vein russetted ; 
dots numerous, minute ; basin abrupt, folded ; eye large, closed ; cavity wide, 
regular, green ; stem long, curved ; core small pyriform, closed ; seeds numer- 
ous. Flesh yellow, firm, breaking, very fine grained, juicy; flavor sub-acid, 
aromatic, spicy, rich ; quality very best ; use dessert market. There is such a 
demand for this fruit that buyers are willing to pay from ten to twenty cents 
more per bushel from the orchard than for any other variety. Season Decem- 
ber to ]\iarch. Does well wherever tried." 



135 



FRUIT EXHIBIT. 



The fruit exhibited by members of the Association at this con- 
vention while of less c[uantity than upon some former occasions 
was decidedly better in quality than that shown heretofore. There 
was evidence of more careful spraying and less room to complain 
of lack of stems, polishing, etc., etc. One exhibit of fine fruits 
which would certainly take a prize for coloring and conformity was 
woefully lacking in stems and would be ruled out in a competitive 
exhibit making it necessary to leave it behind when packing the 
fruit for sending to the state exhibit, much to the regret of the 
committee. There may possibly be a lack of understanding in 
the minds of some members as to the reason for judges insisting 
on stems being present. The stem of an apple is as important as 
the nose on a man's face when it comes to identification. The 
various races and nationalities of mankind can frequently be dif- 
ferentiated and identified by the size or shape of the nose. It is 
the same way with apple stems ; some varieties have uniformly 
long slender stems, others short thick ones. Frequently varieties 
from dift'erent localities differ so much in color that the stem be- 
comes a very important matter in classifying them. Again apples 
of a different varietv sometimes resemble each other so closely in 
other characteristics that but for the stem they could be used to 
compete for the same prize. 

When saving your fine fruit for the 191 1 exhibit PLEASE BE 
CAREFUL TO HAVE ALL vSTEMS INTACT. It is entirely 
proper to wipe fruit carefully to remove adhering dust but should 
never be rubbed to enhance the gloss as that disturbs the natural 
bloom of the fruit thus removing another point of identification 
and a very important one in some cases. 

There were on the tables 144 plates and six boxes of apples, 
four plates of pears, five of potatoes, 3 of walnuts and one of Seed 
Corn which we identify as follows : 



Details of Fruit Exhibit. 

B. F. Wilson, 18 plates— 

3 plates York Imperial. i plate Domine. 

1 plate York Stripe. 3 plates Jonathan. 

2 plates Ben Davis. i plate Baldwin. 

2 plates English Redstreak. i plate Smokehouse. 

I plate Mann. i plate Smith Cider. 

1 plate Paradise. i plate Pound. 

Robert Garretson, 19 plates — 

5 plates York Imperial. 2 plates Yellow Belleflower. 

2 plates Stark. i plate Winesap. 

1 plate Russet. i plate Taft Potato. 

2 plates Ben Davis. i plate Early Clark Potato. 
I plate Grindstone. i plate Snow Potato. 

I plate for name. i plate Burpee Potato. 



136 



HORTICULTURAL 

REQUISITES 

(NOT THE CHEAPEST— BUT THE BEST) 



EVERYTHING 
FOR 
THE 
ORCHARD 

SEND FOR CATALOGS 
AGENTS WANTED IN UNOCCUPIED TERRITORY 



EDWIN C. TYSON 

FLORA DALE, PA. 

REPRESENTING 

SUSQUEHANNA FERTILIZER CO. 
B. G. PRATT COMPANY 
BOWKER INSECTICIDE CO. 
GOULD MANUFACTURING CO. 
JOHN S. TILLEY 
E. C. BROWN CO. 
BATEMAN MFG. CO. 
FRUIT GROWERS SAW CO. 



137 



W. S. Adams, 9 plates and one box — 
T plate Stark. i plate Baldwin. 

I plate Pound. i plate Northern Spy. 

I plate Jonathan. i plate Winter Doctor. 

I plate Paragon. 2 plates Sutton Beauty. 

1 box York Stripe. Box apples not wra 

Joel V. Garrettson & Son, 24 plates — 

2 plates Lehigh County seedling 6 plates York Imperial. 
I plate York County Cheese. 2 plates Stark. 

I plate Black Twig. 2 plates Langford. 

I plate Tariseime Walnut. 2 plates Baldwin. 

I plate Frauquette A\'alnut. 2 plates Stayman. 

1 plate seedling Walnut. i plate seedling. 

I plate B. Sweet. 
E. P. Garrettson, 15 plates — 

2 plates York County Cheese. 5 plates York Imperial. 
I plate Domine. 2 plates Baldwin. 

3 plates Kieffer Pear. 2 plates Stayman. 

Anthony Deardorf, 7 plates — 
I plate Wagner. i plate Stark. 

I plate York Imperial. 2 plates York Stripe. 

I plate Pound. i plate Smith Cider. 

Geo. R. Routzahn, 7 plates — 
I plate R. I. Greening. [ plate Pippin. 

I plate York Imperial. i plate Wagner. 

I plate Pound. i plate Baldwin. 

I plate Paradise. 

H. M. Keller, 16 plates — 
I plate American Blush. 4 plates York Imperial. 

I plate ^^'inter Bananna. 2 plates Baldwin. 

1 plate Stark. 2 plates Ben Davis. 

2 plates Rome Beauty. 2 plates York Stripe. 

1 plate Gold Smith Seed Corn. 

Rufus Lawver, 9 plates — 

2 plates Winesap. 2 plates Stayman. 
I plate W^ealthy. 3 plates Gano. 

1 plate Rome Beauty. 

F. B. Fidler, 

I plate Kiefter Pears. 

H. G. Baugher, 
3 plates Northern Spy. 
A. I. Weidner, 4 plates — 

2 plates Grimes Golden. 2 plates York Imperial. 

Reuben Wert, 
T plate Rome Beauty. 
G. P. Myers, 8 plates— 

3 plates Baldwin. 5 plates not named. 



138 



a^a^a-'^ a^'^a-a- •^•.^•^a- •^•^s-^'.s^ ^•.a-.s-.a^;^'^:^'^ ^'^a-ifr a ^ 

!5-!5'!5'.^ ^••JS'.^JS- ^••V'^^' ^^^^ !y -V-V'^ ^'-V-V'V ^•V-V'5-'5'-5'J5'5'-^-5'.V-5'5'J5'5'.^3?..^J| 

^< 

/A VV/ 

11^ WRITE FOR OUR COMPREHENSIVE BOOKLET ON SPRAYING % 

% t 

(Its 

I oave Your Crops i 

/jy A 

i T o f 

I rrom Insed re^s 1 



1 



is i!> 

I . i 

Demand Hemingway's Jt> 

I i 

1 Pure Lead Arsenate 1 

1 . . . I 

Do not accept inferior makes. Insist upon 

getting Hemingway's and thereby be | 

in assured of good results. Your apple crop || 

comes but once a year. You cannot af- \»> 

f 1 1 1 • 1 1 • '^^^ 

rord to take any chances with the poison vjj 

you use. 

vf> 
\V 

I Our Standard Product | 

I 1 

jj5 has done the work in all the great fruit 

JjS growing districts. The guarantee is on j| 

% every package. A perfect product — prop- | 
^j^ erly packed — honest prices. Stocks car- 

ried in all fruit growing centres. S|j 

I Hemingway's London Purple Co., Ltd. | 

f if 

t 64-66 Water St., NEW YORK t 

'S^'^ ■«g.'>g.'>g.->^- ^^^^ ^Jt^M^^Z i -^•■^•<S;>1- 'fi^^Ki >1'>1'>1'>1' ^^'^'^ 



139 
Oscar Rice, 

2 plates Jonathan. 

C. E. Raffensperger, 6 plates — 

2 plates Baldwin. 4 plates York Imperial. 

Isaiah Test, 

I plate Xorth Star Potatoes. 

F. C. Trestle, 4 plates— 

2 plates Paragon. i plate Baldwin. 

I plate Stark. 

Tyson Brothers, 3 boxes — 

I box York Imperial. 2 boxes Stayman. 

Commercial pack each apple wrapped. 

S. L. Lupton, AMnchester. Ya.. — 

I box Albemarle Pippin. 
I box Stayman. 

Regnlar Commercial pack (wrapped). 
]\lr. Lupton very kindly invited all to sample these 
boxes of apples. They were of excellent flavor 
and were greatly enjoyed. 



Established 44 Years 

Grape Vines 

Largest Stock and 
Best Varieties 

Q For garden and vineyard plant- 
ing ; also Currants, Gooseber- 
ries and other small fruit plants. 
Parties intending to plant are re- 
quested to correspond with us. 

Our Catalogue is Free 

T. S. HUBBARD CO. 

FREDONIA, N. Y. 



Insure Your Property in 

The Adams County 

Mutual Fire 
Insurance Comp'y 

HOME OFFICE : GETTYSBURG 

D. P. Mcpherson, President 

H. C. PICKING, Vice President 
G. H. BUEHLER, Secretary 

J. ELMER MUSSELMAN. Treasurer 

MANAGERS 

H. C. Picking Gettysburg 

J. W. TauGHINBAUGH Hunterstown 

I. S. .Miller East Berlin 

J. D. Neiderer McSherrystown 

D. R. .WUSSELMAN, Fairfield 

Abia S.hucker, Littiestown 

C. L. LONGSDORF, Flora Dale 

John N. Hersh. New Oxford 

Harx'EV a. Scott, Gettysburg, R, F. D. 4 
C. E. Pearson "\'ork Springs 



140 



-ROYSTER FERTILIZERS 



"Founded on MERIT and based on QUALITY" 
TRADE MA«»< 

F.S.Royster T\ Northern 



Guano Co. | ^ Cy^Jy ^ Division 

g REGISTERED. g 

g Office 1239-1269 Calvert Bld^., Baltimore, Md. ^ 



^ H 

P The celebrated ROYSTER FERTILIZERS are not new. We are H 

simply bringing to the North and East a privilege heretofore enjoyed only ^ 

U by the South. ^ 

^ . . H 

By the building of our Baltimore plant we are bringing these cele- SS0 

^ brated brands within the reach of the fertilizer buyers and users, of the ^ 
§N North and East. 

^ JS 

^ All we ask is that they be tried alongside of any and all others, so that g 
Q they can have an opportunity to demonstrate their own worth. The re- ^ 
suit will take care of itself. ^ 

We want reliable agents throughout the territory. None others 
need apply. 

Our travelers are now in the field. It will pay you to reserve at least 
a part of your fertilizer needs for ROYSTER GOODS. 

"Founded on MERIT and based on QUALITY" 



ROYSTER FERTILIZERS 



141 

ADAMS COUNTY FRUIT RECORDS 

Shipments Over Gettysburg & Harrisburg R. R. 



Gettysburg . . 
(G. ri. R. R.) 



Biglerville 



Guen 



Bendersville 



Gardners 



Starners 



Hunters Run , 
(Goodyear) 



G. & H. R. R. 

Total 



^905 
1906 
1907 
1909 

i9'o 
1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1903 
1905 
1906 

1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1903 
1905 
1906 

1907 
1908 
1909 
IQIO 
1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1903 

1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
i9io 



318 j 333 
28 



127 
12 
50 
8813 
7932 
2785 
17164 

4956 
10785 
20017 
2870 
1771 
1414 
4798 

2173 
7320 
11659 
4163 
4000 
1 109 
2824 
2264 

3531 
5628 

997 
912 



6905 

433 
2275 
1566 
682 
664 
1572 
487 
1825 
2500 
625 
160 
295 
1417 
1704 
1289 
2103 
17468 
15617 
6295 

34797 
12017 

27037 
43523 



987 

'165 
4216 



137 
1500 

2413 
1166 
1329 
2760 



ea CO 

Q. ^ Q- 



"a 



1267 



2351 
1561 
6268 



2132 
985 
5215 



28 
127 
12 
50 
9800 
7932 
2950 
21380 

4956 
I 0922 

2I517 

5283 
2937 
2743 
7858 

2173 
7320 
12926 
4163 

6351 
2670 
9092 
2264 

4731 
7760 
1982 
6127 



$2 25 



65 

53 
20 
142 

33 
73 
144 

35 
20 
18 
52 
15 
49 
86 
28 
42 
18 
6r 
15 
32 
52 
13 
41 



1 00 

2 20 

1 40 

2 50 
2 00 



2 35 

1 50 

2 50 
2 00 



^6 

20 
22 
21 

13^ 



2 25 

1 40 

2 50 
2 00 



5440 

4571 
3722 
IO16 

133 
219 



2192 

160 
262 
514 

510 

2190 

4385 
9908 

3450 
19217 

6426 
13003 



12345 

433 
6846 
S288 
1698 

797 
1791 

487 
1833 
4692 

625 
320 
557 
1931 
1704 
1799 
4293 
21853 
25525 
9745 
54014 
12017 

[33463 
56526 



82 

3 
46 

35 
ir 

5 
12 

3 

12 

31 
4 
2 

4 
13 
1 1 
12 

29 
146 
170 

65 
360 

80 
223 
377 



75 



1 50 

2 50 
2 00 



I 50 
I 75 

1 50 

2 50 



1 45 

2 50 
2 00 



$ 70 
I 50 
75 
I 50 



50 



I 35 



75 
I 50 



I 50 50 
... i 65 

I 50 ! 5" 



I 50 50 



Gardners — 1906,2 cars pears ; 1907, i car pears ; 1908, 2 cars pears ; 1910, 2 cars pears, 4 cars peaches. 
Bendersville — 1908, 2 cars pears; 1910, i car pears; 4 cars peaches. 
Hunters Run — 1908, i car pears; 1910, i car pears; i car peaches. 

Biglerville — 1910, i car cherries ; 4 cars cider syrup ; 43 cars canned Apples ; 5 cars evaporated apples. 
Guernsey — 1910, 7 carspeaches. 
Starners — 1910, 2 cars peaches. 



142 



THE REITER 



BOLSTER SPRING 




^ See That Hanger 

The best bolster Spring made. Complete and ready for use as sold. War- 
ranted and guaranteed in every way. These springs are just what FARMERS, 

GARDENERS, FRUIT GROWERS, PEDDLERS, DAIRYMEN and TEAM- 
STERS want, as they will make their rough wagons ride as easy as any 
Spring Wagon, thus saving them the cost of Spring Wagons and enabling 
them to deliver their Fruits, Vegetables, Eggs, etc., unbruised and unbroken 
from hauling and in as good condition as when they left home. 

Can Haul Any and Everything on a Rough Farm Wagon 
Equal to any Spring Wagon and at One Half the Cost 

With these Springs on, wagons will wear longer, harness last longer and 
horses work easier. 

These Springs don't work on top of the Bolster, like other Bolster springs, 
but on each side in shackles, on the same principle as any high-priced Spring 
Wagon. These Springs can't be broken by overloading or rebounding like a 
Spring Wagon. 

By overloading, the springs will work down on each side of the Bolster and 
the wagon will become rough again. In fast driving over rough roads the 
springs, not being attached to the bed or bolster, can't be broken by rebound- 
ing or lifting up of the bed. 

No one using a rough wagon should be without The Reiter Bolster Spring, 
as they will save the cost the first year. Remember, they are warranted and 
guaranteed in every way. Made to carry from 1 000 to 1 0,000 pounds. 
Measure your wagon between standards and order a set ; give them a fair 
trial and let your neighbors, friends and the dealer you got them from know 
what you think of them. 

W. C. REITER, Maker 

Prices on Application WAYNESBORO. P \. 



143 

Adams County Fruit Kecords— {Continued) 

Shipments Over Western Maryland R. R. 



Fairfield, 



Virginia Mills. 



Orrtanua 



IVIcKniehtstown 



Seven Stars . 

Gettysburg . 
(VV. M. R. R.) 

New Oxford 

Abbottstown 

East Berlin . 



W. M. R R. 

Total 



1909 
I9IO 
1907 
1908 
1909 
19IO 
1903 

1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
I9I0 

1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
I9U9 
1910 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
I9IO 
1907 
1908 
1909 
I9IO 
1907 
1908 
1909 
I9IO 

1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
I91O 
1903 

1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 



1905 1215 

1906 300 

1907 300 



320 

326' 



3300 
1062 
3659 
3177 
2686 
741 
8216 

3438 
7895 
2296 

3393 
1785 

7724 

14275 
28 

63 
42 
50 
26 

13 
18 

23 
22 
428 



382 



50 
1 140 

49 



10 

6738 
10380 

7447 
7720 

4536 

; 8873 

j22946 



809 



560 
8800 
1620 
1519 
30 



2342 
1 020 
840 
4045 



2024 
300 



178 
254 
"55 
251 

2030 
1800 



276 

695 
618 



1 193 



205 
I 



1447 
13948 
2891 
4870 
7135 



560 
9120 
1620 
1845 
30 
3300 
1062 
3659 
5519 
3706 
1581 
12261 
3438 
8073 
2550 
4548 
2036 

9754 
1607 c; 
28 

63 
42 

50 
30 
13 
18 

23 
22 
428 
1033 



276 
695 

lOCO 



50 
2333 



22 

7 
24 
37 
25 
10 
82 
23 
54 
17 
30 
13 
65 
107 14: 



2 

AH 
7 



215 

6738 
riyoo 

8894 
21668 

7427 

13743 
30081 



45 
78 
59 
144 

49 
91 
201 



$2 00 
2 40 



1 00 

2 15 

1 75 

2 50 



1 80 

2 25 



1 75 

2 50 



;i 50 



$ 50 



I 50 



I 00 
I 85 



47 
50 



I 50 



90 
2 25 



70 
60 



I 50 



Littlestown — 1910 3 cars apples, 2 cars potatoes. 
Dillsbnrg — 1910 2 cars apples. 

Rep:)rts sh )vv 13,003 'oaskets peaches grown and marketed, in addition to shipments. 



144 



Susquehanna 

Fertilizers 



careful dairyman you would study to make your cow eat every ounce of 
feed she could turn into milk. There is a limit to profitable feeding, of 
course, whether it is a cow or your land. The careful consideration of 
quantity and quality is of the utmost importance. It is the last handful 
of grain which means dollars of profit in the milk pail, and it is just as 
true that the last one hundred pounds of fertilizer means the largest returns 
for your investment. 

If the land is suitable for the crop and you are willing to properly 
prepare it and carefully plant and care for the crop, then you should order 
as much high grade fertilizer as you can possibly use to advantage. 500 to 
1,000 pounds per acre on potatoes, 400 to 800 on corn, and 300 to 500 on 
oats and grass ; other points being carefully provided for, will mean all 
the difference between slim provision for your family on the one hand, and 
a bountiful supply on the other. Do you not think it is worth trying ? 

Don't be a second rate farmer. We want to see all our friends in the 
highest class. If you have not ordered all the fertilizers you can possibly 
use to advantage, see our agent promptly and give him your order. It will 
pay you well to give this matter careful and earnest consideration, whether 
you buy from us or not. Don't forget that we have spent years in perfect- 
ing a profitable crop-producing fertilizer. We use it ourselves and do not 
hesitate to recommend it to our friends. The highest grade is always 
cheapest in the end. 



Agents Wanted in Unoccupied Pennsylvania Territory 



A WORD TO 



THE WISE 



The matter or ordering fertilizers is of vital importance 
Unfortunately too many farmers order just as little as 
they think their soil can get along with. If you are a 



EDWIN C. TYSON 



General Sales Agent 



FLORA DALE, PENNA. 



145 

Adams County Fruit Records— i Continued) 

Total Fruit Marketed in County. 



Total shipped 



Evaporated, 



Canned 



Cider (100,000 gals.). 



Total Fruit 



1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1903 

1905 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 

1905 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 



v» — 



24206 

25997 
13742 
42517 
16553 
35910 

67219 



24206 

25997 
13742 
42517 
16553 
35910 
67219 



4385 

1 1228 

4897 

33«65 
2891 
[1296 
20138 

6547 
10670 

8333 



4666 
8600 
2400 
1 0000 
1673 
12398 
16700 

9524 
6670 

57'4 
[1 120 
10932 
24298 

4897 
61022 
11234 
34074 
56558 



28591 
37225 
18639 
75682 
19444 
47206 
87557 
6547 
10670 

8333 



4666 
8600 
2400 
10000 
1673 
12398 
16700 

9524 
6670 

5714 
1 1 120 
35'38 

50295 
18639 
103539 
27787 

69984! 

i23777i 



191 
248 
124 

504 
129 

314 

583 

44 

7r 

56 



3^ 

57 
16 

67 
II 
82 
II I 
63 
44 
38 
74 
234 
335 
124 
690 
185 

465 
825 



52 
38 
63 
40 
27 

6U 



$1 50 
2 50 
2 00 



52 
38 
63 
40 
27 
61^ 



2 25 

1 50 

2 50 
2 00 



; 75 
I 50 
I 20 



75 



I 75 
75 
i 50 
1 20 



Comparison of Percentages 

















Year 


Per cent, 
barreled 


Per cent 
sold bulk 


Per cent 
evaporated 


Per cent 
canned 


Per cent, cidi 


Per cent, tot; 
fruit compare 
to 1903 


1903 
1905 


70 
52 


12 


18 






100% 
143% 


22 


26 












1907 


41 


32 


8 


10 


9 


295% 


1909 


51 


16 


7 


18 


8 


200% 


1910 


54 


16 


7 


14 


9 


356% 



146 



First National Bank 

GETTYSBURG, PA. 
Capital, $100,000.00 ; Surplus, $150,000.00 

D. G. MINTER, President 
SAM'L M. BUSHMAN, Cashier 

?|This Bank on and after NOV. 1, 1910, will pay 3]£ 
PER CENT, per annum on all moneys deposited for a 
period of six months. 

^ This rate of interest will apply to all outstanding cer- 
tificates from NOVEMBER 1, 1910. 

ylccounts Solicited However Small 



ESTABLISHED 1850 1,200 ACRES 

TREES 

WE ARE WHOLESALE GROWERS OF 

First Class Nursery Stock 

OF ALL KINDS 

Fruit, Shade, Ornamental Trees, Shrubbery, Hedges, Small Fruits, etc., 
Asparagus, Strawberries and California Privet 

IN LARGE QUANTITIES 

The BEST is the CHEAPEST Ours is the CHEAPEST because it is 
the BEST. Handling Dealers' orders a specialty. Catalogue free. 



Franklin Davis Nursery Company 

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 



147 



Arendtsville Planing Mill and Barrel Factory 



p. S. ORNER, Proprietor ARENDTSVILLE, PA. 

M'fg of Apple Barrels and MILLWORK 

Staves a Specialty of all Description, and 

PRICES LOW Lumber of all kinds 

Call, Phone or Write— United Phone 



INDEX 



A 

Addresses — 

"President's", 23-25 

Synopsis of 1910 ^linutes, 26-28 

"Lime Sulphur Preparation for the Summer Spraying of 

Orchards'', 29-36 

"Successful Orcharding in Virginia" 37-45 

''Some Suggestions about the ^Management of Orchards'', .... 46-63 
"Selecting Varieties, Preparing the Land and Planting a 

Commercial Orchard'', 64-71 

"Some Comments about Important Apple Varieties" 72-83 

"General Orchard ]\Ianagemenl'', 84-91 

"Potato Growing in Young Orchards", 105-112 

■'^Management of 700 acre Orchard for one Year", 92-104 

"Co-operation in ^Marketing Apples", 113-118 

'Teach Growing in Maryland", 1 19-122 

"Adaptation of Various Fruits to the Several Soil Types in 

the South Alountain District of Pennsylvania", 123- 131 

Apples — 

Packages, 147, 150 

Varieties, 65, 72 

Grading. 118 

As Fillers, 67 

From Unsprayed Trees (Illustration), 118 

Amendments, 17 

Arsenate of Lead, 6, 8, 20, 34, 132, 138 

Anderson, Jos. W., 55, 57, no 

Adams, W. S 36, 41, 67 

Adams County ^lutual Fire Insurance Co. (Adv.), 139 

Advertisers — 

Susquehanna FertiHzer Co., (Fertilizers), \. . . . 144 

Bateman ^Ifg. Co., (Cultivators and Sprayers) 18 

IMusselman Canning Co., (Greeting), 14 

Goulds Mfg. Co., (Sprayers) 2 

Bowker Insecticide Co.. (Spray ^Materials), 6 

U. S. Kleinfelter, (Barrels), 150 

Grasselli Chemical Co., (Sprav Materials), 132 

B. G. Pratt Co.. (Spray Materials), , 12 

First National Bank of Gettysburg, 146 

Morrill and Morley, (Sprayers), 132 

J. G. Harrison & Sons, (Nurserv Stock) 16 

W. C. Reiter, (Bolster Springs) 142 

P. S. Orner, (Barrels), I47 

Flinchbaugh Alfg. Co., (Engines and Sprayers), 156 



148 



For Fire Insurance 

We claim to represent the best and larger Companys in 
the United States, such as the 

Home of New York, with 
Continental of New York, with - 
Phoenix of Hartford, with 
Insurance Co. of North America, with 
London Assurance Co., with 

and others equally as good. 

Why not insure your properties with us, in old and reliable 
Companys, and Companys that have stood the test of years. 

DOUGHERTY & HARTLEY 



Niagara Nurseries 

= ESTABLISHED 1839 

E. MOODY & SONS 

LOCKPORT, N. Y. 
4* •!!!• 4» 

Standard Pear Trees in Large Supply 

A General Line of Nursery Stock 



$20,000,000 Surplus 
19,000,000 Surplus 
10,000,000 Surplus 
9,000,000 Surplus 
12,000,000 Surplus 



149 



F. S. Royster Guano Co., (Fertilizers), 140 

Franklin-Davis Nursery Co., (Nursery Stock) 146 

Ct. p. Read, (Packages and Cushions), 4 

Adams County Mutual Fire Insurance Co., (Insurance),.... 139 

Niagara Nurseries. (Nursery Stock) 148 

Dougherty & Hartle}', (Insurance) 148 

Edwin C. Tyson, (Horticultural Requisites) 136 

Vreeland Chemical Co.. (Spray Materials), S 

]\Ianhattan Oil Co.. (Spray Alaterials) , 10 

Horticultural Chemical Co., (Spray Materials) 20 

Hemingways London Purple Co., ( vSpray ]\Iaterials) 138 

Adams County Fruit Records — 

Gettysburg & Harrisburg R. R. Shipments, 141 

Western Maryland R. R. Shipments 143 

Total Fruit, 145 

B 

Bateman Mfg. Co., (Adv.) 18 

Bolster Springs. 142 

Bowker Insecticide Co., (Adv.), 6 

Bv-laws 17-19 

Busey. Rev. B. P. S., 23 

Barrels — 

Cushions, Caps and Circles for, 4 

Bordeaux ^Mixture 33 

Russeting. Caused by 33. 34 

Bridge Grafting, 91 

Black. W. H 36, 57, 97 

c 

Committees. List of, 17 

Committees. Duties of, 17. 19 

Cultivating ^lachinery 18,97 

Constitution 15 

Cohill. E. P loi 

Cultural ^Methods, 26, 89. 97, loi. 103, 121 

Cohill, J. A 40, 42. 57, 59, 64, 92, 103, no 

Crimson Clover 28 

Cold Storage, need of 24 

Co-operation. Advantage of 62, 113 

Compressed Air Sprayers. 42 

Crops for Orchards, 4^ 

Cover Crops 40, 5 ^, 86, 98 

Concentrated Lime Sulpliur Solution T04 

Commercial Lime-Sulphur, 6. 8, 20, 30. 44 

Climate, Influence of, 75 

D 

Dues 15 

Duties of Officers 15 

Diluting Concentrated Lime-Sulphur Solution T04 

Davis, Franklin & Co.. (Adv.) 146 

E 

Executive Committee — 

List of, 3 

Duties of, 19 

Eldon, R. M., 23, 67, 78, 91, 97 



U. S. KLINEFELTER 

MANUFACTURER OF 

Standard Apple Barrels 

Of Excellent Quality 
DEALER IN 

Fruit Baskets Of various kinds 



BIGLERVILLE, PENNA. 

UNITED PHONE 



A Complete Line of 

S.*r. ENGINES 



made in Stationarys, Port- 
ables and Tractions. Sta- 
tionarys 1 to 50 H. P., 
adapted for the Farm and 
general purposes, doing all 
the hard jobs on the farm. 

R/\ m XR/\cxiorsi eingiines 

From 2 to 40 H. P., for 
plowing orchards and general 
farm work, both under belt 
and road. Complete Spray 
Outfits, superior to all other 
lines. Investigate before you 
buy; it may be to your interest. 

Sold by ISAAC HARBOLT, 

Wellsville, Pa. 

Manufactured hy 





Flinchbaugh Mfg. Co, 

YORK. PA. 



151 

F 



Farm Implements, 18 

Fruit Growing Prolitable, 88, 90 

Fidler. B jio 

Fruit Districts, 17 

Frazer. Samuel 57-68. 84-9 r, 104-112 

Grape Vines 139 

Formula for Bordeaux 3ilixture, '32 

Fruit Exhibit 135 

Adams County Records, 14T, 143, 145 

Fertilizers, 95, 121, 136, 140, 144 

For Potatoes, 109 

Fungicides 6, 8, 12, 20, 30, 34 

G 

Griest, C. S., 39 

Goulds Mfg. Co., (Adv.), \ 

Grasselli Chemical Co., (,Adv.j, 131 

Good Roads, Importance of 98 

Gould. H. P 46-63, 72-83 

Gasoline Engine Sprayers, 150, 156 

Garretson. E. P 39, 42, 43, 59. 69 

Grading, 100, 118 

Board for (Illustration), 83 

Grimes Golden, Origin of 133 

Gettysburg & Harrisburg R. R. (Fruit Shipments Over) 141 

Garretson. Robert, ^7 

Griest, C. A 98 

H 

Horticultural Chemical Co., (Adv.) 20 

Harrison, J. G. & Sons., (Adv.) 16 

Horses vs. ]^[ules, 96 

Hydrometers 104 

Horticultural Requisites 136 

Hemingways London Purple Co., (Adv.), 138 

Illustrations — 

Grading" Board, 83 

Packing Table, 84 

Diagonal Pack 63 

Side View of Boxes 25 

Apples from Unsprayed Trees 118 

Apples Sprayed Once with Arsenate of Lead 119 

York Imperial Apple, Plate 21 

Packing Adams County Apples 29 

Picking Adams Countv York Imperial, 37 

Williams Early Red Tree 45 

Shallow soil not suitable for Trees 49 

Deep soil suitable for Trees 50 

Well pruned Tree, 55 

Unpruned Tree 56 

Wounds Resulting from wrong pruning, .58-59 

Extent of Tree Roots, 60, 61-64 

Yellow Transparent Tree 72 

Plate of Adams County Apples 91 

Cluster of Adams County Winter Banana ,. 9-2 

Hydrom.eter T04 

Basket of Adams County York Imnerials, 105 

Dish of Adams County Strawberries 113 

Cluster of Adams County York Imperial 123 

Insurance, 139, 148 



152 

FpFpFpFprpFpF 

FFFFFFFFFI^FFF 

p F p F p i p F p F p F p 
FFFFF FFFFFF 

FpFp p pFpFpF 

FFFFF FFFFFF 

pFpFpFpFpFpFp 
FFFFFFFFFFFFF 

FpFpFpFpFpFpF 
FFFFFFFFFFFFF 

pFpFpFpFpFpFp 

Fig. 1 



P P P P P P P 

F F F F F F F F 

F F F F F F F 

PPPPPPPP 

F F F F F F 

F F F F F F 

P P P P P P P 

_f F F F 1^' F 

F F F F F F 

PPPPPPPP 

F F F F F F F 

F FFFFFFF 

P P P P P P P 

F FFFFFFF 
FFFFFFF 

PPPPPPPP 

FFFFFFF 
F F F F F F F F 

P P P P P P P 

Fig. 2 



Two Methods of Hexagonal Planting With Fillers 
"P" represents Permanent Trees, and "F'' shoMS location of fillers. 
Fillers are omitted in center of each illustration to show more clearly appear- 
ance of orchard after fillers are removed. It will be noticed in Fif. 2 that 
each filler occupies the exact center of an equilateral triangle formed by the 
permanent trees. Fig. 1 is probably best where small growing sorts are planted 
as fillers among larger groA\ing varieties. Fig. 2 is better when planting only 
one variety, which must be thinned when approaching maturity. 



153 



K 



Klein felter, U. S., (Adv.), 150 

Knous, David, 40 

L 

Lafean Apple Package and Grade Bill 26, 27 

Ladders Best for Orchard, 28, 136 

Lime Sulphur as a Spray for Fruit Diseases 29, 30 

For Brown Rot of Peach 35 

vScott's Self-Boiled, 35 

For San Jose Scale 43 

Commercial and Home-made Compared, 30-31 

]\Iethod of Making, 30-35 

Strength to Use Commercial, 34-104 

Lupton, S. L., 37. 103. 113, 118 

"Lime Sulphur Preparations for Summer Spraying of Orchards" 29 

M 

^Membership — 

Roll of 3, 5, 7, 9, II, 13 

Constitutional Requirement for, 15 

Minutes of 1910, Svnopsis of, 26 

Morrill & ^lorlcy, (Adv.), 132 

^jjarketing, 24, 62 

Musselman Canning Co., (Adv.) 14 

flyers, L. 58 

.ALanhattan Oil Co., (Adv.), 10 

Michener, ^Nlrs., 67 

N 

Nursery Stock, Rules for Ordering, 38 

Newcomer, Aaron 36, 56, 66, 67, 82, 100, no 

Noz;^les \ 42 

Nurseries, 16, 146, 148 

o 

Officers — 

List of, 3 

Consist of, 15 

Duties of, 17-T9 

Object of Association, 15 

Order of Business, 19 

"Orchard Management", : 46, 84, 92 

Orchard, Potatoes in, 105 

Selecting Site for 38, 49, 50, 69, 114, 119 

Crops in 40 

Value of small 48 

Laying off of 69, 70 

Expenses, of growing, 101-103 

Orner, P. S., (Adv.) 148 

P 

Potato Machinerv 18 

Pratt Co.. B. G.."(Adv.), 12 

President's Address, 23 

Pruning Tools 93, 112, 136 

Pruning Apple Trees, 39, 40, 54, 9^ 

Peach Trees 57, 8(3, 121 

Importance of proper 58, 95 



154 



p 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 




Y 




F 




F 




F 




F 




F 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 








F 




F 




F 




F 




F 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 




¥ 




F 




F 




F 




F 




F 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 




F 




F 




F 




F 




F 




F 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 




F 




F 




F 




F 




F 




F 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 




p 














Fig. 3 














o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


0 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 


o 



Fig. i 



p 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


F 


F 


F 


F 


F 


F 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


F 


F 


F 


F 


F 


F 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


F 


F 


F 


F 


F 


F 






Fig. 


5 







P 


F 


P 


F 


P 


F 


F 


P 


F 


P 


F 


P 


P 


F 


P 


F 


P 


F 




P 


F 


P 


F 


P 


P 


F 


P 


F 


P 


F 


F 


P 


F 


P 


F 


P 






Fig. 


6 







Fjg. .3 Quincimx system of planting — "p" Permanent Trees, ''F'" Fillers. 
Fig. 4 Square Planting. Fig. o Square Planting improperly thinned. Fig. (3 
Proper thinning of Square Planting. 



Piece Root r.'T. Whole Root, 39 

Potato Growing in Orchards 105 

Peach, Marketing- of. 28. 102 

As Fillers. 99 

"Growing in I\[ar}'land" 119 

A'arieties of 120 

Prickett. J. 26, 42. 58 

Planting. ^Method of, 70, 85, 90 

R 

Root S\ -terns. Extent of 59. 60, 61 

Robert.-, Arthnr 97 

Read, G. P., (Adv.), 4 

S 

"Siiccessfnl Orcharding in Virginia'' 37 

Spray Apparatus 2, 18, 41, 42, 89, 132, 136 

Spray Materials 6. 8, 10. 12, 20, 33. 88. 97, 132, 136 

Soil T}pcs 73, 1 19-123 

Soil A(l:!pt;ition 125 

Stewart. Prof. J. P., 104-154 

Snyder, E. B 91, 98, no 

Sod Afulch 52 

Surface, Prof. H. A 97, 98 

Scott, W. M., ( Address), 29 

Stover. Dr. J. G 42, t 10 

Small Fruits 27 

Spra}"ing 88, 95, 122 

Spraying in Summer 9^) 

Strainer, . • '. . 154 

T 

Tillage, Advantage of 51 

Trees — 

Selecting 69, 120, 146 

Heading of 40 

Pudding z's. Grafting 30 

Age of. ' 38 

Trimming Peach Trees. T2i 

U— 

Varieties. Number of Apple 76 

Apple- 65. 72, 77, TO^ 

Peaches 120 

Vrceland Chemical Co.. (Adv.) 8 

W 

Vages 93, 118 

AVilder. H. J 123 

AAVirming Trees 100 

Vestern Maryland Railroad, Shipments Over 143 



Seventh Annual Convention will be Held 
December 13, 14, 15, 1911. 




Figure i. (Original). A new type of strainer for lime-sulphur or other 
spra}' materials (designed by Prof. J. P. Stewart, Experimental Horticulture. 
State College, Pa.). The liquid enters at "A" passes upward through the 
screen and is carried where desired through a hose attached to the spigot. 
The coarse particles thus fall away from the screen insteaa of accumulating 
on it. An\' solution remaining with the sediment may be secured by running 
through it the water used in the next boiling. 



g>etientt) Annual Conbentton 



Proceedings for 
The Year 1911 



Held at Bendersville Pennsylvania 
December Thirteenth, Fourteenth, Fifteenth 



THE 



Fruit Growers Association 

of Adams County 

Pennsylvania 

ORGANIZED DECEMBER 18, 1903 



PROCEEDINGS 

OF THE 

SEVENTH ANNUAL CONVENTION 

HELD IN 

Fruit Growers Hall, Bendersville, Penna. 
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 
Dec. 13, 14, 15, 1911 



2 




Get FIRST Prize For 
Your Fruit 

Spray with Bowker's 'Pyrox'' 

and secure fruit that is free from 
insedl damage and fungus disfigure- 
ment. 'TYROX'' fms the barrel 
with the kind they used to put on top. 

Bowker's Lime Sulphur 

for all scale insedls is made heavy 
and rich, and for that reason is more 
eff edtive than lighter mixtures ; and 
as a rule it co^s no more. When 
you clean up your trees with Lime 
Sulphur, be sure to use Bowker's for 
it is the kind you can rely on to do 
effective work. 

WE SHIP FROM BALTIMORE 



WRITE FOR AGENCIES TO 

O TT "R INSECTICIDE CO. 

V-/ W JV. XL/ XV 43 Chatham Street, Boston, Mass. 

E. C. TYSON, State Agent, Flora Dale, Pa. 



MAY im 



Officers 



President Robert M. Eldon, Aspers 

1st Vice President, C. J. Tyson, Flora Dale 

2nd Vice President, C. A. Griest, Guernsey 

T,rd Vice President, C. E. Raffensperger, Arendtsville 

^th Vice President, E. P. Garrettson, Biglerville 

Ith Vice President, J. G. Stover, M.D., Bendersville 

Recording Secretary, Josiah W. Prickett, Biglerville 

Corresponding Secretary, .... Edwix C. Tyson, Flora Dale 

Treasurer, Wm. S. Adams, Aspers 



Executive Committee 



Robert M. Eedon, Aspers 

C. J. Tyson, Flora Dale 

C. A. Griest, Guernsey 

C. E. Raffensperger. Arendtsville 

E. P. Garrett son, Biglerville 

J. G. Stoto, M.D., Bendersville 

Josiah W. Prickett, Biglerville 

Edwin C. Tyson, Flora Dale 

Wm. S. Adams, Aspers 




4 




Over 3,000 Acres in Nurseries 
Catalogue free ::: Visit us 




J. G. HARRISON & SONS 

Box 425, BERLIN, MD. 

d. You will become a regular customer if you try our stock, hence this 
special offer of first-class trees at bargain prices. We want a trial order 
from you, and will make it worth your while to send it. 



Membership Roll 



Adams, Wm. S., Aspers, Pa. 

Adams, Mrs. W. S., Aspers, Pa. 

Asper, D. C, Aspers, Pa. 

Asper, Chas. F., Aspers, Pa. 

Anderson, H. W., Stewartstown, Pa. 

Anderson, Joseph W., Stewartstown, Pa. 

Anderson, H. M., Xew Park, Pa. 

Arnold, J. Raymond ..York, Pa, 

Armold, Wm. H., Gettysburg, R. F. D., P 

Bream, Samuel, Biglerville, Pa. 

Bream, Dill, Bendersville, Pa. 

Bream, Wm. E., Biglerville, Pa. 

Bream, H. J., Aspers, Pa. 

Bream, M. F., York Springs, Pa. 

Boyer, W. W Arendtsville, Pa. 

Black, Wm. H Flora Dale, Pa. 

Baugher, H. G.. Aspers, Pa. 

Baugher, Ira, Aspers, Pa. 

Baugher, Martin Aspers, Pa. 

Bucher, John Pendersville, Pa. 

Belt, J. H., Wellsville, Pa. 

Butt, J. L., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Bosler, Frank C Carlisle, Pa. 

Brough, Edward, Biglerville, Pa. 

Busey, Rev. B. P. S Bendersville, Pa. 

Bassett, Charles E., Fennville, Mich. 

Batterman. D. F., Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 

Boyer, George E., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Butler, Allen, Elkins Park, Pa. 

Bushman. S. F., Gettysburg, R. F. D., P 

Bnshey, J. Blain, Biglerville, Pa. 

Brandt, John Ira, Mt. Joy, Pa. 

Behrhorst, C. E., Pittsburg, Pa. 

Baltzley, S. L., Orrtanna, Pa. 

Brame, Edw., Aspers, Pa. 

Blessing, David H., Harrisburg, Pa. 

Black, Moses, Aspers, Pa. 

Blair, C. I., Aspers, Pa. 

Bream, W. A., ...Gettysburg, Pa. 

Cocklin, Miss Alice, Bowmansdale, Pa. 

Cocklin, J. A., Siddonsburg, Pa. 

Cocklin, B. F., Mechanicsburg, R. F. D., 

Cook, Arthur E., Aspers, Pa. 

Cook, J. W., Flora Dale, Pa. 

Cushman, G. R., Baltimore, Md. 



6 



SCALIME 

(A Concentrated Solution of Lime and Sulphur) 

''Equal to the Best, and Better than the Rest" 



OCALIME has been on the market for several years, and has given per- 
^ feet satisfaction wherever used. It is made of the best material, by 
skilled workmen, and is always uniform. 

PROF. JOHN P. STEWART, who is the author of Pennsylvania 
State College Bulletin No. 92, on concentrated Lime-Sulphur, says : "A 
concentrated Lime-Sulphur should be a clear solution, of known definite 
strength, and contain nothing but Lime, Sulphur and Water.' ' 

If the liquid is not clear it may have been doctored to increase the 
density. If the strength or density is not known it will be impossible to 
dilute it properly to obtain sprays of different densities, and if it contains 
anything except Lime, Sulphur and Water, the added substances are of no 
advantage and may be a detriment. 



Horticultural Chemical Co., Philadelphia, Pa., 

Gentlemen : — During the past season 1911, I used eight (8) barrels o^ 
Scalime on my Peach and Apple Orchards with entirely satisfactory results, 
and shall continue to use the same. I can heartily recommend your goods 
to anyone using spraying materials, as I know they will give satisfaction. 

Very truly yours, 

j. C. Saylor. 

GUARANTEE 

We guarantee that SCALIME contains nothing 
but Lime Sulphur and Water, and that the strength 
or density is 1. 30 s. g. (33 degrees Baume) and 
if diluted in the proportion of 1 gallon SCALIME to 9 gallons water wil 
kill all the SAN JOSE SCALE with which it comes in contact. 



SCALIME 



PRICES OF SCALIME 

50 gals., 1 barrel . - - - $10.00 

10 " Jacketed Can - - - 2.75 

5 " " "... 1.75 

1 " " . . . .75 

For Prices on Car Load Lots, Address 

Horticultural Chemical Co. 

662 Bullitt Building, Philadelphia, Pa. 



7 



Cluck, J. C, Biglerville, Pa. 

Carey, Calvin, Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Carson, E. E., Eendersville, Pa. 

Cole, A. W., Orrtanna, R. F. D., Pa. 

Crouse, E. A., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Deardorft, Anthony ]\Iummasburg, Pa. 

Deardorff, Henr}-, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Deardorff, H. W., Tillie. Pa. 

Deardorff. W. B., Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Deardorft, J. A., Cashtown, Pa. 

Dull, Thomas, Aspers, Pa. 

Dunlap. James M.. Walnut Bottom, Pa. 

Dunlap, F. S., Newville, Pa. 

Day, T. F., Aspers, Pa. 

Dougherty, Dorsey, Gettysburg, Pa. 

Dickey. Samuel, Oxford, Pa. 

Deatrick, H. G., Hunterstown, Pa. 

Eldon, Robert M Aspers, Pa. 

Eldon, Mrs. R. M., Aspers, Pa. 

Eppleman. T. W., Aspers, Pa. 

Everhart. G. \V York, Pa. 

Elliott, Chas. H., Philadelphia, Pa. 

Eiholtz, S. Mc. Biglerville, Pa. 

Eppleman. E. E., Aspers, Pa. 

Eppleman, H. C. Aspers, Pa. 

Finnef rock, Thomas Bendersville, Pa. 

Fohl, George E., Biglerville, Pa. 

Fiddler, F. B Aspers, Pa. 

Forney, D. T Gettysburg, Pa. 

Funt. J. W Biglerville, Pa. 

Felty, G. B. O., Millersville, Pa. 

Griest, C. Arthur, Guernse}-, Pa. 

Griest, Mrs. C. A., Guernsey, Pa. 

Griest, C. S., Guernsey, Pa. 

Griest, A. W., Baltimore, Md. 

Griest, Frederic E., Philadelphia. Pa. 

Griest. G. G 30 Church St.. N. Y. City. 

Griest, Maurice, 105 AV. 163d St., N. Y. City. 

Griest, Chas. J., York Springs, Pa. 

Garrettson, J. V., Aspers, Pa. 

Garrettson, Frank, Aspers, Pa. 

Garrettson, EH P Biglerville, Pa. 

Garrettson, Harriet, Biglerville, Pa. 

Garrettson, J. B., Aspers, Pa. 

Garretson, Robert, Flora Dale, Pa. 

Garrettson, John, Aspers, Pa. 

Garrettson, Eli, Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 6, Pa. 

Grove, W. E., York Springs, Pa. 



8 



IRONAQE 



No. 191 Vertical 
BARREL SPRAYER 



This is but one of 9 New Combinations for 

the man with a small orchard, a small farm, for his garden, and odd 
jobs around the home, for the poultryman. The nine include: 

Horizontal Barrel Sprayer 
Vertical Barrel Sprayer Pumps (2) 
Horizontal Barrel Wagon Sprayer 
Vertical Barrel Wagon Sprayer 
Vertical Barrel Sprayer & Truck 
Double Acting Hand Spray Pump 
Bucket Sprayers (2) 

No. 191 has out- 
side pump — easy to 
get at the brass ball 
valves and hemp 
packing. 

Used with any kind of solu- 
tion, hot or cold. 

Furnished with barrel if or- 
dered. Fits any barrel. 

Furnished as in cut, or with 
one or two leads of hose. 

If interested, ask to-day for 
special circulars and have your 
name put on our list for "Iron 
Age Farm and Garden News" 
and the new printed matter, cov- 
ering our full line of Potato Machinery, Garden Tools, Traction 
and Barrel Sprayers, Orchard Cultivators, Rakes, etc. Ask us about 
our new Power Sprayer. 

BATEMAN M'F'G CO. 

Box 54 V . *. GRENLOCH, N. J. 




9 



Gardner, L. M., Jr., York Springs, Pa. 

Gochnauer, J. D., York Springs, R. F. D., Pa. 

Gochnaiier, Jacob S., Aspers, Pa. 

Gracey, Robert Newville, Pa. 

Gove, Mary E., Bendersville, Pa. 

Guise, D. H., Emmittsburg, Md. 

Gardner, C. W., York Springs, Pa. 

Haskell, H. F Uriah, Pa. 

Hiester, Gabriel Harrisburg, Pa. 

Heyser, Wm., Jack's Mountain, Pa. 

House, O. P., Aspers, Pa. 

Harris, Edwin, Aspers, Pa. 

Harris, Meriam Bendersville, Pa. 

Hoffman, W. C, Biglerville, Pa. 

Hoffman, E. N Biglerville, Pa. 

Hoffman, Daniel Aspers, Pa. 

Ploffman, George, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Hoffman, Willis Biglerville, Pa. 

Harshman, U. W., Waynesboro, Pa. 

Hoke, David, Hanover, Pa. 

Huber, Charles H Gettysburg, Pa. 

Hartman, Geo. I Biglerville, Pa. 

Hull, D. W., Wa3'mart, Pa. 

Heckenluber, G. T., Biglerville, Pa. 

Hummel, P. T Harrisburg, Pa. 

Huber, Henry S., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Hazard, Willis Hatfield West Chester, Pa. 

Hershey, C. A., McKnightstown, Pa. 

Heilman, J. R., Palmyra, R. F. D. 2, Pa. 

Hertig, John, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Hart, H. V., Martinsburg, W. Va. 

Houck, P. L., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Jacobs, Samuel Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Jacobs, Daniel C, Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Keller, H. M., Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Klinefelter, U. S Biglerville, Pa. 

Kane, J. A., Biglerville, Pa. 

Kane, J. Lewis, , Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 6, Pa. 

Knouse, J. A., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Knouse, David, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Koser, Rev. D. T., x\rendtsville. Pa. 

Koser, G. W., Biglerville, Pa. 

Klepper, C. H Arendtsville, Pa. 

Kunkle, John R., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Eongsdorf, C. L., Biglerville, Pa. 

Lawver, Rufus W., Biglerville, Pa. 

Eawver, J. Edw., Biglerville, Pa. 

Eongsdorf, Dr. PI. H., Dickinson, Pa. 



10 



CLit is not only the growing of 
the fruit that demands your atten- 
tion, but the manner in which it 
is packed as well. 



Corrugated Caps 





White Paper Caps 



1 



Cushions 



199DUANESWNEWY0RK 

BRANCH ALBION. N.Y, 
MANUFACTURER AND 
DEALER IN SUPPLIES 
USED BY THE FRUIT 
GROWER AND SHIPPER 
FOR THE PICKING, 
PACKING AND PROTECTING 
OF HIS FRUIT. 



Lace 
Circles 



CThe use of my goods at the 
time of packing increases the value 
of your fruit 10%. 



Send for booklet on Fruit Packing Supplies. 
IT IS FREE. 



II 



Lady. Hiram C Arendtsville. Pa. 

Lupp, Reuben, Biglerville, Pa. 

Lau, L. B., East Berlin, R. F. D. Xo. 3, Pa 

Large, Mrs. E. S., Orrtanna, Pa. 

Large, Miss Katherine. Orrtanna, Pa. 

Lewis, W. J.. Pittston, Pa. 

Lott, J. Kerr, Gettysburg, R. E. D. No. 2, Pa. 

Lott, David, Gettysburg, R. E. D. No. 6, Pa. 

Michener, Mrs. Chas., Bendersville. Pa. 

Myers, George P., Biglerville, Pa. 

Mcllhenny, Wm. B., Gettysburg, Pa. 

McKay, Geo. H Philadelphia, Pa. 

Mayer, Dr. L H., Willow Street, Pa. 

Morrison, Mrs. W. S.. Aspers, Pa. 

Miller, John H., Aspers. Pa. 

Minnich, D. N., ChamberslDurg. Pa. 

Miller, N. G., Marion. Pa. 

Miller, C. C., Alarion. Pa. 

Minter, Thomas L., Biglerville, Pa. 

Musselman, C. H Biglerville, Pa. 

Musselman, J. Elmer, Gettysburg, Pa. 

Minter, Mrs. D. G Gettysburg, R. E. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Myers, Levi M Siddonsburg, Pa. 

Miller, Robt. C., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Miller, E. M., Hanover, Pa. 

Moyer, Mrs. H. B., Cape May, N. J. 

Moyer, Dr. H. B., Cape May, N. J. 

Mickley, J. W., Fairfield, R. F. D., Pa. 

Mickley, L D., Cashtown, Pa. 

Morgan, Miss F. K., Orrtanna, Pa. 

Musser, Will M., Lampeter, Pa. 

Myers. Emory ]., York Springs, Pa. 

Middleton, T. EUiott, Boihng Springs, Pa. 

Maloney, W. J., Dansville, N. Y. 

Newcomer, Aaron, Smithburg, Md. 

Naylor, H. A., Aspers, Pa. 

Osborne, C. L,, Biglerville, Pa. 

Osborne, Allen, Biglerville, Pa. 

Oyler, Geo., Gettysburg, R. E. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Oyler, George C, Gettysburg, R. F. O. No. 5, Pa. 

Ogden, David, Aspers, Pa. 

Orner, P. S., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Prickett, Tosiah W., Biglerville. Pa. 

Peters, Z. J., Guernsey, Pa. 

Peters, H. W., Aspers, Pa. 

Peters, W. R., Aspers, Pa. 

Peters, Geo. M., \spers. Pa. 

Peters, Curtis, Biglerville, Pa. 



12 



Up-to-Date Fruit Growers 



ANY good apple growers are using Lime-Sul- 
phur, but the most up-to-date growers in the 

MW/j United States, Australia and Africa, use 
^'^ "SCALECIDE," — not because somebody 
else is using it, but their own judgment and 
experience tells them that the greatest per- 
fection in fruit and foliage is produced by the continued use of 
"SCALECIDE" with less labor and less expense. "SCALE- 
CIDE" has no substitute. It is the only oil containing distinct 
fungicidal properties. 




Poor Orchards Made Good 



C Six years ago one-half the trees in the orchard of the Fair- 
view Orchard Company, Kearneysville, W. Va., were tagged 
by the inspector, who reported it the woist scale-infected or- 
chard he ever saw. After four years' use of "SCALECIDE" 
exclusively as a Winter wash, the same orchard is pronounced 
one of the cleanest in the State, and produced in 1910 over 
10,000 barrels of apples, which sold for over $29,000. If the 
continued use of "SCALECIDE" brings an orchard that is half 
dead to life, is it reasonable to expect injury to a good orchard ? 
"SCALECIDE" shows greater fungicidal properties than any 
other Winter wash. 



B. G. PRATT COMPANY 

M'f'g Chemists 50 Church St. New York City 

E. C. TYSON, Flora Dale, Pa. 

State Agent for Pennsylvania 



13 



Peters, John X., Eendersville, Pa. 

Pitzer, Harr}- C, Aspers, Pa. 

Patterson, Jas. A., Stewartstown, Pa. 

Pratt B. G., New York City. 

Pittentorff, C. S., York Springs, Pa. 

Eaftensperger, Chas. E., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Raffensperger, Roy, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Rice, E. E., Aspers, Pa. 

Rice, C. E., Biglerville, Pa. 

Rice, Waybright. Biglerville, Pa. 

Rice, C. S., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Rice, Luther vS., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Rice, Oscar C, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Routzahn, George R., Bendersville, Pa. 

Rinehart, E. S., Mercersbiirg, Pa. 

Rinehart, J. J., Smithburg, Md. 

Roberts, Arthur, Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 

Rittenhouse, Dr. J. S Lorane, Pa. 

Repp, Albert T., Glassboro, N. J. 

Riddlemoser, H. E., McKnightstown, Pa. 

Roth, John, Biglerville, Pa. 

Rice, Edwin A., Arendtsville. Pa. 

Rex, Raymond, Idaville, Pa. 

Stover, Dr. J. G., Bendersville, Pa. 

Stover, Mrs. J. G., Bendersville, Pa. 

Slaybaugh, E. B., Aspers, Pa. 

Slaybaugh, Elmer, Aspers, Pa. 

Smith, G. Frank, Aspers, Pa. 

Smith, J. H., Biglerville, Pa. 

Shank, George Pi., Biglerville, Pa. 

Shank, C. B., Biglerville, Pa. 

Sheely, Daniel M TiUie, Pa. 

Sheely, Alien Bendersville, Pa. 

Sheely, Geo. D., New Oxford, Pa. 

Shull, Jno. A., TiHie, Pa. 

Shull, Robt. H Tillie. Pa. 

Stoner, C. A., Gettysburg. Pa. 

Schuchman, G. W., Carlisle, Pa. 

Stable, Charles E., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Spangler, George E., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Snyder, E. B.. Jack's Mountain, Pa. 

Snyder, Jacob S., Idaville, R. F. D., Pa. 

Sn yder, \\ . E-, Bendersville, Pa. 

Snyder, L. S., York Springs, Pa. 

Starner, C. S., Aspers, Pa. 

Stitzel, J. A ...Aspers. Fa. 

Slauffer, Chas. B Gettysburg. Pa. 

Spangler, A. R., Aspers, Pa. 

Sachs, Edw , Biglerville. Pa. 

Shoemaker, J. M., , Mechanicsburg, Pa. 



14 



Feed the Tree ! 

Dempwolf's Spring Special Brand has proven highly 
effective as a Fertilizer for orchards. 

Analysis : Formula : 



Ammonia, - - 2% 



Available Phosphoric Acid, 7 7c 



Potash (Soluble in water), 10% 



Ingredients Used for Ammonia. 

Nitrate of Soda. 
Ground Fish. 
Dried Ground Blood. 
High Grade Animal Tankage. 
Dempwolf's Special Ammonia and 
Phosphoric Acid Compound; 

Ingredients Used for Phosphoric 
Acid: 

Dissolved Phosphate. 
Ground Fish. 

High Grade Animal Tankage. 
Dempw^olf's Special Ammonia and 
Phosphoric Acid Compound. 

Ingredients Used for Potash : 
Muriate of Potash. 



Ask Your Local Agent for his Brand, or write direct to 

York Chemical Works 

YORK, PENNA. 



15 



Sharrah, Jacob, McKnightstown, Pa. 

Strasbaugh, E. F., Orrtanna, Pa. 

Sheaffer, Henry C, .Dillsburg, No. 1, Pa. 

Sheelv, A. D., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Tyson, Edwin C, Flora Dale, Pa. 

Tyson, Mrs. M. W., Flora Dale, Pa. 

Tyson, Chester J., Flora Dale, Pa. 

Tyson, Mrs. B. PL, , Aspers, Pa. 

Tyson, Wm. C. Guernsey, Pa. 

Tyson, Mrs. M. E., Guernsey, Pa. 

Tyson, A. R., Norristown, Pa. 

Taylor, Hanson W., Biglerville, Pa. 

Taylor, Daniel R., Biglerville, Pa. 

Taylor, Henry, Biglerville. Pa. 

Taylor, Jerry, Aspers. Pa. 

Trostle, Francis, York Springs, R. F. D., Pa. 

Thomas, Airs. Dr Gettysburg, Pa. 

Taughinbaugh, J. L.. Hunterstown, Pa. 

Weidner, A. I., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Wolfe, C. A., Aspers, Pa. 

Wolfe, Harr}-, Aspers, Pa. 

Wolf, Dr. W. E., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Wolf, Charles M., York Springs, Pa. 

Weaver, Mrs. C. M., New Oxford, Pa. 

Weaver, David, Biglerville, Pa. 

Wilson, B. F., Biglerville, Pa. 

Weaner, Chas. C, Bendersville, Pa. 

Weaner, W. C, Aspers, Pa. 

Wertz, D. M., Quincy, Pa. 

Wible, R. E., Gett3'sburg, Pa. 

Wickersham, Ruth A., Bendersville, Pa. 

Wickersham, Robt. A., Bendersville, Pa. 

Wagner, Harry, Carlisle, Pa. 

Wright, Ryland, Aspers, Pa. 

Williams, J. L., Harrisburg, Pa. 

Weigle, H. M., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Waher, J. C, Biglerville, Pa. 

Warren, Blain, Bendersville, Pa. 



i6 




RELIABLE 
FARM 



Pumps 



Plenty of Water Anywhere 

at small expense if you have a good pump about the 
house and barn. 

Goulds Pumps are unequalled for ease of operation 
and capacity. They outwear and outwork other pumps 
because made of better materials and by workmen who 
have made pump-making a life study. 

We make hundreds of different styles— a pump for every 
kind of service and the name 'Goulds" is cast on every one 
Don't waste time and money on a cheap pump. 

Otir Free Book. beatdtfuUy illustrated " Water 
Supply for the Home " tells about pumps and 
pu7n ptnii'. Scud for it and see hoiv it hits your case 

The GOULDS MFG. CO. 

000 West Fall St.. Seneca Falls, N. Y. 






Only thorough work with the best macmnery 
accomplish the best paying results from spraying. 

You 7nust spray if you would have perfect fruit, and it 
doesn't pay to bother with a cheap outfit. It means no 
end of trotible and it's too risky — you have too much 
at stake. 

Goulds Sprayers liave proved tneir su- 
periority by years of service. We make 
the sprayer best suited to your condi- 
tions, it will last for years because all 
Nvoiking parts are made of bronze to 
resist the action of chemicals. "You 
can depend on a Goulds" to work when 
ever and as long as you require. 

Send for Our Booklet: 
'How to Spray— When to Spray— What Sprayers to Use" 

It discuss 's tlie matter thorouu'hly. It gives valua!)le 
sprayini,' formulas and tells how and wl)en to use them. 

THE GOULDS MFG. CO. 000 W. Fall St.. Seneca Falls. N.Y 

\\\- Make both H:niJ an,! Power Pumyis f -r Every Fcrvic- 



17 



CONSTITUTION 

PrEambi^e. 

Being interested in fruit growing and believing that, by organization, we 
may materially advance our common interests, we hereby adopt the following 
Constitution and By-Laws : 

Article I. — Name. 

This Association shall be known as The Fruit Growers' Association of 
Adams County. 

Article II. — Object. 

The object of this Association shall be to encourage the co-operation of 
the fruit growers of Adams County for the protection and advancement of 
their common interests. 

1st. By securing and disseminating such scientific and practical informa- 
tion as shall promote the general advancement of the fruit growing interests 
in this county, and shall tend to the improvement of the quality and quantity 
of our products. 

2d. By securing such legislation as may be advantageous, and prevent- 
ing that which may be detrimental. 

3d. By securing such improved facilities in transportation as shall tend 
to give us more expeditious and economical distribution. 

4th. By endeavoring to secure a better and more uniform system of 
packing and package. 

5th. By devising some system of marketing our products which will open 
up and develop the markets and give to the grower a fair and remunera- 
tive return. 

6th. And by endeavoring" to obtain such improved systems of crop re- 
porting as shall furnish, through co-operation with other similar Associa- 
tions, accurate information concerning production; thereby enabling the fruit 
grower to know the exact situation. 

Article III. — Membership. 

1st. Candidates for membership may be elected by a majority vote of 
the members present, and upon the payment of $1.00 into the treasury shall 
be entitled to membership until the next Annual Meeting. 

2d. Any member may renew his membership by the payment of annual 
dues, but upon failure to pay dues within three months after Annual Meet- 
ing, shall require re-election. 

3d. No member shall receive the benefit of commissions or of co-oper- 
ative buying by the Association, to an amount greater than $1.00 for the term 
of one year after election to membership. 

Article IV. — Dues. 

The annual dues of this Association shall be One Dollar ($1.00) pay- 
able to the treasurer at the meeting immediately preceding the annual meet- 
ing, for which the treasurer shall issue a receipt, this receipt to constitute 
a certificate of membership for the succeeding year. 

Article V. — Officers. 

Its officers shall consist of a President, a First, Second, Third, Fourth 
and Fifth Vice President, a Recording Secretary, a Corresponding Secre- 
tary, and a Treasurer, all of whom shall be elected by ballot at each An- 
nual Meeting, to serve for the term of one year or until their successors 
shall be chosen. These nine (9) elective officers shall constitute an Execu- 
tive Committee. 



i8 



IVe thanJi our man'^ J^ind friends 
for their patronage through the season of 191 1 
And wish all Apple Growers 

A Happy New Year 

and a 

Large Crop of Apples 

for 1912 



MUSSELMAN 
CANNING 
COMPANY 

Biglerville, Pennsylvania 



19 



Articlk VI. — Q II or urn. 

Five (5) members shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of 
business. 

Article VII. — A m end men ts. 

The Constitution and By-Laws of this Association may be amended at 
any regular meeting by a two-thirds vote of the members present, a notice of 
the proposed amendment having been presented in writing at a previous 
regular meeting. 

x\rticlE VIII. — Fruit Districts. 

For the purpose of distributing the work of the Association and ex- 
tending its scope, the County of Adams shall be divided into the follow- 
ing seven (7) districts: District One, or North District, to consist of 
^[enallen Township ; District Two, or West District, to consist of Franklin 
Township ; District Three, or Southwestern District, to consist of Highland, 
Liberty and Hamiltonban Townships ; District Four, or South District, to 
consist of Cumberland, Freedom and Mt. Joy Townships, and that portion 
of Straban Township lying south of the Western Maryland Railroad; Dis- 
trict Five, or Eastern District, to consist of Germany, Union, Conowaga, 
Mt. Pleasant, Oxford, Reading, Berwick and Hamilton Townships ; Dis- 
trict Six, or Northeastern District, to consist of Latimore, Huntingdon and 
Tyrone Townships; District Seven, or Central District, to consist of Butler 
Township and that portion of Straban Township lying north of the West- 
ern Maryland Railroad. 

Article IX. — Committees. 

The following five (5) committees shall be appointed annually by the 
newly-elected Executive Committee and announced at the January meeting, 
as follows : A committee on programs, a committee on membership, a 
committee on statistics, a committee on exhibits and a committee on crop 
reports; each committee shall be composed of one or two members from 
each of the seven (7) districts of Adams County, as designated in Art. 8, 
and one or two from each of the Counties of York, Cumberland and Frank- 
u'n. 

BY-LAWS 

Article I. — Duties of President. 

The President shall preside at all meetings of the Association and have 
a general supervision of its affairs. 

Article II. — Duties of Vice Presidents. 

The highest designated Vice President present at any meeting shall 
preside in the absence of the President; all of the five vice presidents shall 
serve on the Executive Committee in conjunction with the other elective 
officers; and, in addition, each vice president shall have special duties as 
follows : 

The First Vice President shall be chairman of the program committee, 
and be responsible for the preparation of a program for each regular meet- 
ing, same to be announced at the preceding meeting. 

The Second Vice President shall be chairman of the membership com- 
mittee, and shall use every effort, personally and through members of his 
committee, to extend the membership and secure renewals. 

The Third Vice President shall be chairman of the committee on sta- 
tistics, and shall be responsible for the preparation of statistics showing 
number of orchards in Adams County, and, as far as possible, in York, 
Cumberland and Franklin Counties, w^ith quantity, age, kind and variety of 
trees planted therein, for the use of the Association, adding thereto as new 
orchards are planted or old ones extended. 



20 



Cut Down the Number of Sprays 

YET GET BETTER PROTECTION 



The real cost of spraying is in the labor, not the material. Cut down the 
number of sprays, yet be certain those you make are most effective by using 

ELECTRO ARSENATE OF LEAD 

(The Powdered Form) 

as your insecticide. It sticks longest because of its amorphous (non-gianular ) 
form and its exceptional fineness. Is 100 per cent, stronger than other brands 
because it contains 32,^2-3 3 per cent, arsenic oxide properly combined with 
the lead ; yet is safest as there is less than ^2 of 1 per cent, water-soluble ar- 
senic present. 

Packed in from 1 lb. cartons up to 300 lb. bbls. 

ELECTRO LIME-SULPHUR SOLUTION 

a sure death to San Jose Scale and all scale and sucking insects. We guarantee 
it to test 33 degrees Baume and to contain the maximum percentage of soluble 
sulphur — the active insecticide. It is a cherry colored liquid free from sedi- 
ment. This is the coming summer fungicide. 

Packed in 50 g:al. bbls., 30 and 25 gal. ^2 bbls., 5 and 1 g:al. cans 

ELECTRO BORDO-LEAD MIXTURE 

( In Paste Form 1 

This is a mixture of our 20 per cent. Arsenate of Lead Paste and Electro 
Bordo Pulp properly proportioned — a combined insecticide and fungicide es- 
pecially adapted for spraying grapes, ground crops, etc. 

TROUTMAN ORCHARD HEATERS 

We are the eastern and foreign distributers for this positive means of in- 
suring orchards and ground crops against frost. They give the same heat hourly 
and burn 50 per cent, longer, with equal amount of fuel, than any other device. 

SPRAY HOSE 

which stands wear and high pressure, yet cost no more than ordinary hose. A 
cotton-covered rubber hose of exceptional durability furnished in any length 
with or without couplings. 

ELECTRO BRANDS 

Kerosene Emulsion ; Insecticide Soap, contact insecticides for summer 
spraying. Pine Tar Creosote for treating wounds in trees. Tree Leim for 
banding trees. Bordo-Pulp, a concentrated Bordeaux. 

Every grower ought to have a copy of our new booklet, 

"SPRAYING SIMPLIFIED" 

the most concise and comprehensive booklet on spraying ever issued. 



THE VREELAND CHEMICAL CO., 34 Dey St., New York 



21 



The Fourth Vice President shall be chairman of the committee on ex- 
hibits, and have entire charge of securing fruit for exhibits and displaying 
same as directed by the Association. 

The Fifth Vice President shall be chairman of the committee on crop 
reports, and have entire charge of collecting and compiling same for use 
of the Association. 

Article; III. — Duties of Recording Seeretary. 

The Recording Secretary shall write the minutes of the meetings of the 
Association and have charge of its Records and Reports. 

Article IV. — Duties of Corresponding Secretary. 

The Corresponding Secretary shall conduct the correspondence of the 
Association and shall receive for so doing his necessary expenses for sta- 
tionery, postage, etc. He shall also act as Recording Secretary in the ab- 
sence of that officer. 

Article V. — Duties of Treasurer. 

The Treasurer shall receive and keep an accurate account of all moneys 
belonging to the Association, paying out same on an order of the Association, 
signed by the President. He shall make a report of all receipts and disburse- 
ments at the annual meeting or at any time at the request of the Associa- 
tion. He shall mail a notice of dues to all members one week prior to the 
November meeting, at which time all dues are payable, and shall issue cer- 
tificates of membership in exchange for all dues received. He shall also keep 
a roll of members who have complied with Article IV of the Constitution 
and embody same in his annual report. 

Article VI. — Duties of the Executive Committee. 

The Executive Committee shall have general supervision of the affairs 
of the Association, auditing all bills and accounts and carrying out the pur- 
poses of the Association. 

Article VII. — Meetings. 

There shall be a regular meeting of the Association on the second Satur- 
day of each month at 7:30 p. m., unless otherwise ordered. The meeting 
held in December to be regarded as the Annual Meeting. Special meetings 
may be convened by the Executive Committee at such time as they may ap- 
point. 

Article Ylll.— Initiation of Officers. 

All new officers shall assume the duties of office at the opening of the 
meeting immediately following the one at which they were elected, except 
that the newly-elected Executive Committee shall prepare and announce, at 
the January meeting, the membership roll of the five (5) committees speci- 
fied in Art. 9, and the chairman^^of program committee shall prepare a pro- 
gram for the February meeting and announce same at the January meeting. 

Article IX.— Order of Business. 

1st. Reading of minutes of previous meeting. 

2d. Nominations and elections. 

3d. Reports of committees. 

4th. Deferred business. 

5th. Communications. 

6th. New business. 

7th. Discussion of questions. 



22 



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PROCEEDINGS 



OF THE 

SEVENTH ANNUAL CONVENTION 

OF THE 

FRUIT GROWERS' ASSOCIATION 

OF 

ADAMS COUNTY, PA. 



The Seventh Annual Convention was called to order by the 
President, Robert AI. Eldon, at 2 : oo p. m., Wednesday, December 
13, 191 1, in Fruit Growers' Hall, Bendersville, Pa. 

The convention was opened with prayer by the Rev. D. T. 
Koser. 



PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS. 



RocT. Eldox. 



We are glad to welcome members of the Fruit Growers' Asso- 
ciation, visitors, lecturers and patrons to the seventh convention. 
We are in practically new quarters. By the offer of increased 
rentals, the fruit growers organization so encouraged the owners of 
the old hall that they were moved to add much thereto, which I am 
sure you will appreciate during the days of this week. The growth 
of the organization from less than forty at the first meeting in 1903 
to more than two hundred sixty in 191 1 is most gratifying. Some- 
times there is a failure to renew for a year, but mostly the man or 
woman once a member, comes promptly forward with a renewal. 
Xot all of our membership own orchards or fruit trees but join 
because since the coming of the fruit growers' association they find 
that they can get better and cheaper fruit, or because as business 
men, professional men or laborers, they know that the fruit-grow- 
ing industry has greatly increased the amount of money returned 
to the county, a part, and a very large part of the gross returns is 
certain to come to them in the usual course. 

A number have joined, if for no other reason, because they say 
that to sit and see and hear at com'ention time is worth the price. 
1 can see several of these now, and there are others also filled with 
the good American desire to help a good thing along. Join the 
Fruit Growers' Association and become part owner of a large 

. 23 



24 



amount of good-felloAvship. You will later get a copy of the Pro- 
ceedings which will be of value to you. A text book on Horticul- 
ture. Xot theory. l3Ut the boiled down experience of practical men. 
A real text book on the stibject of Horticulture, well worth the 
money. 

^[ore than the u-ual care has been exercised dttring the past 
year in spraying for the scale insects and for the codling moth and 
its co-laborer the ciu-ctilio. It is impossible to expect that any of 
the trio named or of many other pests attacking tree, foliage or 
fruit will ever become exterminated, but we believe that all may be 
held in check by careful and timel\' work. 

SeAxral of our members have noticed the same fault in spray- 
ing operation, namely, that the nozzle man kept too close to the 
tree so that some of the branch tips at about the level of the oper- 
ator's face were entirely missed. 1 ha^'e called the attention of my 
helpers to this at least a score of times during the past season, and 
we found at picking time that the few scale present were on the 
fruit from these branches. By the use of l3ends for the rods or 
angle nozzles, the old fault of poorly S])ra}-ed lower branches has 
been cured. 

To do a good spraying job, high pressure and large air-chamber 
space are of the first importance. A good pump and a willing 
pump-man are good biu the compressed-air sprayer is the coming 
sprayer. Either a central plant where an engine and compressor 
can charge the power tank of the -pra^'er while the spray liquid 
tank is being filled, or the portable engine and compressor outfit fill- 
the bill as no direct pumping outfit can possil)le fill it. The first 
of these two types is the lighter while the second is perhaps the 
safer and more efficient. This second type can reach full spraying 
pressure Avhile the operator is straightening out the hose and rod. 
and it has a constantly increasing air-chamber space at maximum 
pressure. 

The occurrence of Cedar Rust has been much less prevalent 
dtudng 191 1 than diudr.g 1910. bin there is apparently no way of 
determining Avhether this is due to climatic conditions or to the 
general cutting away of the cedar trees. If the scientists are cor- 
rect in their statement that the cedar trees and the apple trees are 
alternate hosts for the fimgus. it would l)e soimd arginnent to say 
that the cutting of the cedar trees is the chief factor in the lessened 
amount of the fungus injury. 

^lany trees in the neighborhood sultered severely from fire 
blight, which is certainh' the most distressing of the apple orchard- 
ist's troubles, requiring a cure that is no cure, but a partial or entire 
destruction of the tree. 

The apples seem to have had a poor l^looming season yet set a 
heavy crop as did also cherries. Peaches bloomed freely but fell 
oil, probably due to overbearing in 1910 and lack of other care. 
Small fruits were generally disappointing. 

The apple crop was the largest in the history of the county, but 
at the present time figures are not available. Its quality was good. 
Perhaps a part larger than usual went to the cannery and evapor- 
ator, on account of the general large crop throughout the country. 



25 



\Miile we desire first of all to grow apples for the box trade and the 
high class barrel trade, there will always be a quantity larger or 
smaller moving toward the cannery and dry house, and surely in 
the future when the Adams county full crop year coincides with 
the outside full crop, a great mass of fruit will be directed to them. 
AA'e have but one cannery and two evaporators under one manage- 
ment within a radius of several miles. There should be others so 
that we might profit by reasonable competition. I should like to see 
a co-operative canning and evaporating plant owned and operated 
by the members of this organization. I am not alone in thinking 
that the price of drops and culls is too low. Xew York growers get 
much better prices. Evaporators are much more plentiful there or 
growers dry their own fruit. 

Let us make a concerted efi'ort to have the Adams County Ex- 
hibit better than anv previous Adams County Exhibit, and better 
than any other county exhibit. Partly because we want to keep the 
cup oft'ered as a prize for best exhibits, but principally because the 
habit of winning is a good habit to cultivate, when the accomplish- 
ment of the object striven for, does not injure the other fellow in 
the race. Our sister counties have good individual growers who 
are certain to haAC good fruit on exhibition, but not having been 
organized so long as have the Adams county growers, they do not 
pull together as perhaps we do. It takes not only care in grow- 
ing fine fruit but continued efir'ort in following it through all the 
stages of its course from picking to judging. Ever since our organ- 
ization began to compete as a county exhibitor it has always had 
a number of its members on hand to take advantage of the choice 
of space, and to see that the fruit is properly selected and displayed. 

The practice of making an exhibit at otu* own convention is 
the best kind of training in preparation for the second and more 
elaborate display at the State meeting. 

Join the State Society and attend its sessions. Help to make it 
the best in the country. It should have two thousand members and 
two hundred or more of them should come from the first fruit pro- 
ducing county. 

Join the Adams County Association and persuade others to do 
the same thing. Attendance at its sessions will help you to under- 
stand your troubles which is half way to mastery over them. You 
cannot expect to remember all that you hear here. Join and get the 
record, the Proceedings. 



26 




Twig Blight of Apple. 

APPLE DISEASES. 

Prof. H. R. Fulton, Pennsylvania State College. 



I have been asked to speak on the subject of apple diseases. 
Fully twenty of these, aiiecting all parts of the apple tree, have 
come to ni}^ notice in Pennsylvania. Fortunately the majority are 
only slightly injurious ; several that are very serious in other sec- 
tions of the country occur very infrequently with us. We can con- 
sider only the most important apple diseases to-day. 

These diseases, for our purpose, may be classified as fungous 
and bacterial diseases, and physiological diseases, remembering that 
bacteria are, after all, merely a special kind of fungi. Those of 
the first class are caused by living plant organisms of very small 
size, that may spread from plant to plant ; and these diseases are in- 
fectious or contagious in character. However, climatic and local 
weather conditions., as well as other conditions of environment^ may 



27 

favor or check epidemics of such diseases, either directly by in- 
fluencing the spread and development of the organisms, or indirect- 
ly by placing the host plant in a condition of greater or less suscepti- 
bility. But always the causative organism must be present, and 
control measures must usually be aimed directly at it. 

Occasionally, as in the case of the Powdery ]\Iildew on leaves 
and young shoots of apple, the fungus may be killed after gaining 
foothold by applications of a fungicide. In mose cases the aim 
must be to prevent the first infection ; l^ecause, as a rule, when the 
organism has become established, there is no hope of eradicating 
it from invaded parts. 

For infection to occur, three conditions must hold : There must 
be a source of contagion, there must be a susceptible host plant, and 
the general environmental conditions must fai^or the infection. To 
prevent infection, we must take these things into account, and the 
special measures will vary for each disease according to its peculiar- 
ities with reference to these three conditions. For illustration think 
of well known treatment for apple Scab, which calls for three appli- 
cations of a proper fungicide, just before the buds open, just after 
the petals fall, and a third two weeks later. The coating of fungi- 
cide on fruit and leaves makes an unfavorable environment for the 
development of the scab fungus there. This is made when the 
parts in question are young and in their most susceptible condition. 
And it so happens that the source of early contagion for Scab is 
the so-called winter-spores that form slowly during winter on fallen 
apple leaves infected the previous year with Scab, and reach ma- 
turity, are scattered, and retain their vitality for three or four 
weeks only, about the apple blossoming time. I know of cases 
where elimination of the fallen leaves, by plovving them under be- 
fore the time indicated, or by burning them, has given successful 
control ; but such measures do not commend themselves on the score 
of general practicability. A'arietal susceptibility influences very 
much Scab infection, and should influence our treatment of it. 
Baldwin, York Imperial, Ben Davis and Jonathan are aft'ected little 
or not at all, while Stayman AA'inesap, ]\IcIntosh, Spitzenburg, and 
Xorthern Spy are quite susceptible. Discrimination in the treat- 
ment of varieties varying in susceptibility will promote efflciency 
and economy not only for scab, but for other troubles. A wet, cool 
spring favors Scab. Our climatic conditions, fortunatelv. are less 
conducive to Scab development than those farther north ; and we 
can for this reason safely omit, in the aAcrage season and on the 
average variety, the early application, just before the blossoms 
open. 

In the case of Cedar or Orange Rust, unprotected voung leaves 
and fruit of certain A'arieties are the endangered parts ; the infec- 
tive material in this case comes from red cedars that mav harbor 
the fungus in the familiar "cedar-apples ;" and infection is favored 
by periods of continuous wet Aveather for tAvo or three davs. AMien 
these conditions occur together. Avhich i^ only occasional! v. Ave have 
an outbreak of Cedar Rust. For this disease the removal of en- 
dangering red cedars from the vicinity of orchards has proved more 
constantly eifective than spraying. 



28 




Gymnosporangium Macropus. 



1. Cedar-apple with gelatinous horns. 2. A spore from a gelatinous horn 
germinating and producting four infection spores, one of which is de- 
tached. (\'er3' highly magnified). 3 and 4. Apple leaf and fruit with 
the cluster-cup stage of the fungus. 

We were speaking of the spray applications, for us usually two 
in number, made when the petals fall and two weeks later, that are 
timed particularly for Scab control. These, let us remember, will 
also be more or less effective for Cedar or Orange Rust on leaves 
and fruit, for Blotch on leaves and fruit, for Sooty i\Iold on fruit, 
and for Black Rot Spot (Sphaeropsis and Frog Eye Spot (Illos- 
porium) on leaves. The diluted lime-sulphur material seems to be 
satisfactorily eff'ective against these troubles, and is preferred to 
Bordeaux mixture. Where Blotch and Black Rot prevail, care 
should be taken to cover twigs and limbs at one of the sprayings ; 
and as thorough as possible pruning out of affected woody parts 
should be practiced. 

Sometimes, when cool, moist Aveather prevails, there may be a 
midsummer outbreak of Scab; and usually the leaf spotting fungi 
and Sooty IMold and Blotch of the fruit continue to cause infec- 



29 



tion until late in the season. Furthermore, Bitter Rot and Fruit 
Spot usually begin their attacks after the fruit is half grown ; and 
such ripe rots as Black Rot, Brown Rot, and \'olutella Rot come on 
in the latter part of the year. More efficient protection is afforded 
against all of these if a fungicidal application is made in July, at the 
time when spraying is done for the second codling moth brood. 
Where Blotch and Bitter Rot prevail, Bordeaux mixture must be 
used in midsummer and the application made two or three times at 
intervals of tAvo weeks on varieties susceptible to these destructive 
diseases. 

A word further about Blotch and Bitter Rot may not be out of 
place. Both of these diseases are among the most serious affecting 
apples in the South. They occur in Pennsylvania to a small degree 
only, but we must be on the alert lest they gain a greater foothold. 

Bitter Rot spots are brown and circular, and the rot extends 
inward in a cone-shaped area quite rapidly, so that it may reach 
the core by the time the surface area is the size of a half dollar. 
The surface is dotted with spore pustules which emit minute flesh- 
colored, waxy masses of spores rather early in the development of 
the rot. The fungus lives over winter in mummied apples on the 
trees, but not in those that rot on the ground ; and in the limb 
cankers, when these are formed. Of our commercial varieties 
Jonathan is likely to suffer most. 

Blotch affects the surface of the fruit, without directly caus- 
ing rot. The skin is discolored, and sometimes thickened so that 
small raised areas are apparent. These are covered with minute 
black dots in which the spores are formed. When attacked early 
the fruit is dwarfed and deformed. The fungus attacks leaves and 
twigs, surviving the winter in the latter. Ben Davis is the most 
susceptible of our commercial apples. 




Un SPRAYED York Imperial Tree Almost Defoliated by Leaf- 
Spot. 



30 



The Fruit Spot that can be controlled by July spraying is 
characterized by numerous small spots, about 1-16 of an inch across, 
that are at first deeper green or red than the surrounding color ; 
and soon becomes dead, and brown or black. The flesh is not af- 
fected deeply. They are more numerous towards the apex of the 
fruit, and frequently occur at lenticels. The cause of this fruit 
spot is the fungus Cylindrosporium pomi, which infects the fruit 
during July as a rule, and can be readily prevented by one or two 
applications of almost any fungicide during the first half of July. 
We must not confuse this disease with that known as Fruit Pit 
which seems not to be due to fungus attack, and can not be con- 
trolled by spraying. 

Let us remember that the requirement for summer spraying, 
as for any spraying, and the returns to be obtained from it, depend 
on the presence of certain fungi that develop then, the growing of 
varieties susceptible to their attack, and the occurrence of weather 
conditions that would favor their development ; and that the most 
satisfactory results will be obtained when judicious spraying is an 
adjunct to the use of good methods of culture and sanitation. 
Spraying is, after all, an expedient to catch, as it were, the thief 
after he is in the house. Let us see to it that we do not allow ways 
to multiply by which he may enter. 

There are certain transmissible diseases that can not be satis- 
factorily controlled by spraying, such as Twig Blight, and the 
cankers produced by the Black Rot and Bitter Rot fungi, and the 
several wood rots and root rots. Our only means of holding these 
in check is to discover the trouble at an early period in its develop- 
ment, and thoroughly remove all affected tissue. 

Twig Blight, sometimes known as Fire Blight, attacks young 
shoots, the bark of older limbs, and sometimes the blossoms or 
young fruit. As soon as blighted twigs are noticed, they should 
be cut off well below the affected part and the cut surface, how- 
ever small, touched with a swab wet with a disinfectant, such as 
I to 1000 bichloride of mercury ; tools also should be wiped with 
such a solution at frequent intervals. Cankers can frequently be 
cut out ; but often the affected part must be sacrificed. Large cuts 
should be painted over as well as disinfected. 

Collar Rot as we find it causing the death of the bark at the 
base of the trunk of apple trees, is a perplexing condition. I am 
not satisfied as to its causation in every case. Perhaps we ought 
to bear in mind that this part of the tree is the one where general 
decay is most likely to occur because moisture from the soil and 
a good oxygen supply favor general decay organisms. We know 
that a fence post will usually rot because of the same conditions, 
more rapidly near the surface of the ground than above or below. 
I am sure that in some cases winter injury is primarily responsible 
for the trouble with the apple trees. In a few instances I have 
found the Blight bacterium present as the cause of the extensive 
death of the bark; and I have also found other organisms associated 
with the trouble, such as the fungus of Black Rot, the wood rotting 
Schizophyllum, and the root rotting Armillaria. In the far west, 
some hold that arsenic injurv to bark is responsible for a somewhat 



31 



similar, although apparently not identical condition. x\nd there 
are cases where improper painting of trunks has caused trouble. 
But when all these things are considered, I am not satisfied in my 
own mind that I can satisfactorily account for half of the so-called 
Collar Rot that I have seen. 

Though we can not yet speak certainly about its causation, we 
ought to take precautions against its possible spread. In hunting 
borers in orchards afifected with collar rot, free use should be made 
of disinfecting solution on all wounds and tools. Close watch should 
be kept for the fi.rst signs of the trouble, and the afifected area cut 
out as thoroughly as may be, leaving the live bark with, a smooth 
edge for healing. The cut surface should be washed with bi- 
chloride of mercury or strong lime-sulphur as a disinfectant, and 
the surface painted with pure lead and oil paint or tar. When the 
exposed surface is large, and alcove ground, a coating of grafting 
vrax will prevent drying out, and promote healing. Diseased trees 
should be prevented from carrying a full crop of fruit, and atten- 
tion should be paid to securing proper soil moisture and aeration 
and fertilization. Judicious reduction of foliage by summer prun- 
ing would doubtless be helpful. 

We come next to those constitutional disorders that we call 
physiological diseases. They are not caused by organisms of any 
sort; they result from derangements of the normal physiological 
functions of the plant parts, usually due to unfavorable environ- 
mental conditions. Our knowledge of them at present is meagre ; 
and from their nature control measures are unfortunately of limited 
applicability. Such troubles are Fruit Pit (perhaps more usually 
known as Baldwin Spot, although this term is also sometimes con- 
fusingly applied to Fruit Spot mentioned above), W^atery Core, 
Watery Apex, Sun Scald. Sticky Skin, and probably Jonathan Spot. 

Fruit Pit shows rather large, vaguely outlined, slightly de- 
pressed spots, that suggest finger print bruises. Under these the 
flesh is dead for some distance, and later the surface becomes dead 
and brown. Frequently afifected areas can be found in the interior 
of the flesh. The cause is supposed to be lack of sufficient moisture 
at certain periods in fruit development, especially sudden changes 
from wet to very dry conditions. It mav be that tillage methods 
can be so developed as to equalize the soil water supply sufficiently 
to reduce this trouble to a minimum. 

Watery Core and Watery Apex seem to be diff^erent forms of 
the same trouble. Continued deficiency of water may cause the 
cell sap to reach such high concentration as to kill the living sub- 
stance, and there is a consequent diffusion of sap into the small 
spaces in the apple tissue, giving the watery, instead of the whitish, 
opaque appearance ; or a sudden access of water after the cell sap 
has become highly concentrated, may result similarlv. 

Sun Scald is injury to the cells from intense heat. It is ac- 
companied by abnormal ripening of tissues in the vicinity. It may 
be aggravated by liquid on the surface of the exposed fruit and is 
frequently seen on fruit suddenly exposed to the sun's rays after 
being shaded. 



32 



I do not know of any explanation for the condition known as 
Sticky Skin or Dead Skin. Microscopically the tissues in such 
cases seem fairly normal. 

The Jonathan Spot is also hard to explain in the light of our 
present knowledge. It seems not to be due to any organism. 
Whether or not it is related to the physiological Fruit Pit is an 
open question. Perhaps we will find eventually that it is a trouble 
distinct from others enumerated. It has been suspected to be a 
form of arsenic injury, but tests made in 191 1 by the U. S. De- 
partment of Agriculture indicate that heavy applications of arsenic 
do not increase the amount of spotting. It develops much more on 
apples in ordinary storage than on those in cold storage and atten- 
tion to this point is advised when apples give indication of develop- 
ing this trouble. 




Applks From Uxsprayed Trees. Large Pile, Culls. 
vSmall Pile on the Right. Saleable Fruit. 
{Photo, by Peairs.) 



33 




FivK- Year-Old Peach Tree Showixg Great Spread of Roots. Root 
Shown 17 Feet Long. 



PEACH CULTURE. 



John F. Boyer, Middleburg, Snyder County, Pa. 



Peach culture is very different to-day from what it was 25 
years ago, and in many locahties the cultivation of this delicious 
fruit has been entirely al)andoned. It is, however, a fruit so well 
known in Pennsylvania that a description is not necessary. Years 
ago a peach tree would li\ e to bear almost like an apple tree, espec- 
ially the seedling, which to-day is harder in bud than budded trees, 
but the tree itself seems to have lost the vitality it once had and is 
no more a longer lived tree than trees from the nursery. What 
brought about these changes ? 

I believe that Providence had a great deal to do with produc- 
tion. It seems to me that a man is limited in all lines of production. 
In my opinion, surely, the man who bites off" more than he can chew 
will make a llat failure in peach culture. 

It is not extensive but intensive peach culture that pays. The 
man who can do the proper thing at the proper time is always the 
man who off"ers the choicest fruits on our markets and that is the 
only fruit that pays the producer. 

Common and poor fruit w^as never very renumerative with me. 
The subject of peach culture seemed to me like a funnel, looking 
into it at the small end, the farther you see into it, the wider the 
subject gets. I always feel my inability to do justice to this subject. 
The novice then would ask what are the requirements to be a suc- 
cessful peach grower. My anwer would be, the Man, the Loca- 



34 



tion, and the Soil, would be the chief requirements; and the mosi: 
iraportant of the three is the Man himself because he may cause 
failure where the most favorable conditions exist. 

He must take a liking to the business. Having such a man, 
next in importance is the soil. I do not expect to find it disputed 
when I say God made the soil complete — by which I mean that vir- 
gin soil contains all the required elements to produce both the tree 
and the fruit. Where shall this soil be located? By all means on 
the hills, where there is an air drainage, get above the frost line, do 
not make the mistake of putting your orchard in a ravine where it 
is thought by many the cold winds cannot strike them. We have 
all learned and often heard the remark on a cool evening — If the 
wind's calm, we will have a frost. What does this mean? It 
means as long as the wind blows, moisture vdll not settle, and as 
long as moisture does not settle, frost cannot form; but just as soon 
as the motion of the air ceases then moisture will gather and freeze. 
In many so-called sheltered places where not sufficient air can get 
in, moisture will settle and cause the loss of a crop of fruit. 

Having the location, next in order would be the trees. I never 
expected the nurseryman to grow these for me. All I want from 
the nurseryman is the starter. I never wanted the heavy first class 
trees, neither' would I recommend a very small tree. For, should 
a dry season follow, heavy loss would be the result, as the tree 
which should be planted in early spring has no way of taking nour- 
ishment until fibers form, and in a dry season, would die or dry up, 
if too light before fibers form. If too heavy not enough rootlets 
come with the tree from the nursery, and this goes to the other ex- 
treme. Having trees to caliber one-half inch planted a little deeper 
than they stood in the nursery, in ground plowed deep, and pre- 
pared as for a crop of corn is about right. After the trees are set 
fifteen feet apart each way, then comes the work of the pruning 
knife, here again the medium sized tree has the preference. Any 
one familiar with the peach tree from the nursery knows full well 
that a tree has a set of branches, then buds, then another set of 
branches, then buds again. In heavy trees the tree has to be cut 
either right above the collar Avhich is too low ; or at the second set 
of buds Avhich is too high ; giving the tree too much leverage wdien 
planted in the full sway of the wind. Potatoes or any cultivated 
crop may be grown for two years, after which time the entire 
ground should be given to the tree, and thoroughly cultivated. The 
leaders should be cut back for three years, that is the time required 
to grow peach trees of bearing size. The peach tree is unlike the 
apple. The apple has fruit spurs Avhile the peach bears its fruit on 
the previous year's growth of wood. 

Consequenth' we must have a succession of new growth of 
wood. By thorough cultivation and proper pruning and not allow- 
ing the trees to OA^erbear, the desired new-growth can be controlled, 
and fair crops can be produced ; unless the winter season becomes 
too severe. Properly ripened peach buds will stand a temperature 
of 15 degrees below. A man has far more control than is generally 
believed by not allowing the tree to overbear. This is the whole 
secret of getting the buds in proper shape. Otherwise the tree has 



35 



no time to mature the crop and prepare the buds for the following 
year. Thinning the fruit should be done after the June drop. 

The peach borer can easily be controlled by removing the soil from 
around the trunk, and extract the borers with pocket-knife or some 
pointed iron. The peach borer does not cut wood like the apple, 
but feeds on the Cambium layer, and if taken before he gets down 
in the roots, can be easily destroyed. 

Spraying for scale and fungus diseases must be carefully and 
thoroughly done in early spring, before the blossoms open. Lime 
and sulphur is the most satisfactory material, known at the present 
time, for both the scale and fungi. 

In my 28 years' experience as a peach grower I have yet to 
learn what crop to grow in a bearing peach orchard that is not 
grown at the expense of the peach crop. Frequently I am asked 
w^hat crop can be grown in a peach orchard, when bearing ; and my 
answer is always a Peach Crop. The disease known as ''Yellows," 
among peach trees is first noticed in the premature ripening of the 
fruit. 

Then follows the wiry growth on branches generally in clus- 
ters, with very narrow foliage. The word "Yellows" does not in- 
dicate that a tree with yellow leaves has taken this disease, as a 
tree may not have proper nourishment or may be attacked by 
borers which cause the foliage to turn yellow ; and such trees will 
respond very readily if proper treatment given. 

And again, a tree with the most vigorous foliage, dark green, 
may premature it fruit and fully develope the disease. The only 
way I know to hold this disease in check is to remove the tree and 
burn on the spot. 

It was frequently stated a few years ago that the peach business 
would fall in the hands of specialists, and I really believed it myself, 
but I have changed my mind. Since the San Jose scale has made 
it appearance in sufficient numbers to destroy those orchards planted 
by the negligent fellows, they are not in business. Only the stand- 
pat fellows are in the peach business to-day, and they are here to 
stay. The Syndicate or incorporated orchard companies must learn 
that they are carrying on their business with disinterested help, and 
to have thousands of acres of orchards will necessitate them spread- 
ing labor over too large an acreage and the result is slighted work 
going on all the time. 

The fruit business is different from factory work — where one 
foreman can stand over hundreds of hands and control them suc- 
cessfully. The biggest mistake I ever made was when I increased 
my peach business until at one time I had between 43 and 44 thou- 
sand trees in cultivation and it was impossible for me to have the 
fruit picked and packed in proper shape ; and I found that I had to 
reduce my acreage in order to have the fruit right for the con- 
sumers. 

You see, someone had told me to be sure that I was right and 
then go ahead ; well, I started to grow more peaches to get more 
money to buy more land to plant more trees to get more money 
to buy more land to grow more peaches ; and that is the way I got 
inio tlie business so extensively. j\Iy neighbors who had onlv small 



30 

orchards had finer fruit than mine. You see, I wanted to be one 
of those speciahsts, but I soon discovered that the old saying- that 
the big fish eat the httle was not true. In fact, I believe the time 
will soon be here that the little fish will eat the big. At least, I do 
not fear the competition of large orchard companies, but I do fear 
the competition of the fellow who has only as many acres in culti- 
vation as he can look after himself. 

To summarize — would say, the right man — the right location — 
the right soil — with all requirements strictly carried out, from the 
planting of the tree to the marketing of the fruit, will find peach 
culture as profitable as the culture of any other fruit. 



R. M. Eldon. Do you have any trouble in getting the right 
men to do your work? 

Mr. Beyer. That is just my troul:)le, to get that kind of help. 
The labor problem is the biggest trouble I have in my business. I 
do not have much trouble to dispose of my fruit. It requires in- 
telligent help and I cannot always get enough of the right kind. 

C. S. Griest. In picking your fruit, how often do you go over 
the same trees? 

Mr. Boyer. About twice. That is the time they should be 
sorted, too. 

Member. Do you use any commercial fertilizer? 

Mr. Boyer. I had a commercial fertilizer made for the peach 
crop, lo per cent, available Phos.-acid and 8 per cent. Potash, and 
I could not see any difference. I could see a difference on the 
clover and other crops afterward. 

Member.. How much to the acre? 

Mr. Boyer. One-half ton. 

Member. Any difference in the color of the fruit? 
Mr. Boyer. None whatever. 
Member. Did it seem to increase the quantity? 
Mr. Boyer. No. 

Member. Did you use barnyard manure? 
Mr. Boyer. No indeed. 

Member. Do you take off ]:)remature fruit? 

Mr. Boyer. The first symptom is the premature ripening of 
the fruit, and about the third summer if you do not take the tree out 
it would die itself. 

Member. How often do you cultivate in a season? 

Mr. Boyer. That depends a little on the rain-fall. If I have 
my man in the orchard to-day, and we should have a hard rain to- 
morrow, that same portion would have to be cultivated just as soon 
as the ground gets into proper condition. It is moisture the peach 
grower is after more than anything else. About 80 per cent, of the 
peach is moisture. In fact, taking all crops, moisture is the chief 
element. We know a layer of loose ground acts just the same as 
straw manure. We can take a harrow and loosen the ground, and 
that acts as a mulch. 

Member. Do you use a spring-tooth harrow for cultivation? 

Mr. Boyer. I do. 

Member. Do you head them back each vear ? 



37 



Mr. Boyer. The first season I cut the leaders back. The 
nicest fruit grows on the top. We just prune so tliat we have a 
nice bearing tree and a nice crop. We head in the long branches 
so as to keep it from growing out of shape. 

Member. Which variety gives you the largest quantity of 
extra fine fruit? Which variety brings you the most money? 

Mr. Boyer. Elberta. 

Member. Do you grow the Champion? 

Mr. Boyer. I do. 

Member. Do you grow the Carman? 
Mr. Boyer. We do not grow very many. 

Member. What is the difference between the Carmen and 
Bell of Georgia ? 

Mr. Boyer. The Belle of Georgia is about on the same list. 
The Mountain Rose is about the first free-stone. They rot very 
badly in a wet season. The late ones do too but not so bad as the 
semi-clings. 

Member. What are the principal varieties that you have 
growing at the present time? 

Mr. Boyer. I grow a good many Salway, which I would not 
recommend on a soil under 800 ft. above sea level. They are not 
good on low ground, but where you have the altitude, the Salway 
is a very profitable peach. Also grow, Elberta, Stump and Old 
Mixon. We have some new varieties but they are not tested out 
yet. 

Member. Have you the Iron Mountain? 
Mr. Boyer. I have. 

Member. Is there much difference between that and Ford's 
Late White? 

Mr. Boyer. Not much. 

Member. Does the Iron Mountain have more color? 

Mr. Boyer. I have the trees growing and can not tell you 
much about the fruit. I prefer to grow the varieties that I have 
been growing for years. Just planted enough of those newer var- 
ieties to test them. 

Member. Do you get any fruit the third year? 

Mr. Boyer. Sometimes a few, but I always aim to grow the 
trees before I grow the fruit. You can grow a pretty fair crop in 
three years but it is at the expense of the tree. It does not pay. 

Member. Do you believe in pruning at any time during the 
summer months? 

Mr. Boyer. In July or August. I could show you thousands 
of trees that I trimmed last August. 

Member. Do you prefer that to winter pruning? 

Mr. Boyer. I do, because when the season comes we are 
ready to spray. 

Member. In your locality do trees make much young growth 
after they bear ? 

Mr. Boyer. They do. I can only speak of my own locality. 
I do not consider a peach orchard profitable after ten years. It is 
better to start a new one and take the old trees out. I would sooner 
spend my time on a young orchard. 



Member. How many years have you been practicing sum- 
mer pruning? 

Mr. Boyer. About seven. 

Member. How do you find time to prune in July and August? 
Mr. Boyer. I am talking about young orchards now. 
Member. How many baskets do you pick ott a four-year-old 
peach tree? 

Mr, Boyer. About two. 

Member. Do you aim just to grow especially nice large 
peaches and put them in carriers or do you put them in baskets? 

Mr, Boyer. Baskets. I use carriers sometimes, too. 

Member. Do }-ou find it more profitable in baskets? 

Mr. Boyer. That depends upon the crops in Xew Jersey, 
Maryland and the southern states. You have to watch the market. 
Some seasons it pays to ttse carriers and sometimes not. 



39 




Adams Couxty York Imperials — "Xone Better Grown."' 



THE INFLUENCE OF FERTILIZATION AND OTHER 
FACTORS UPON YIELD, COLOR, SIZE AND GROWTH 
IN APPLES. 



Dr. J. P. Stewart, F^xperimcv.tal Pomologist, State College, Pa. 



The Pennsylvania Experiment Station has been conducting 
experiments bearing upon the above subject, during the past five 
years. Altogether, it has now in operation i8 such experiments, 
involving ii soil types and 3660 trees. In many respects, this series 
of experiments is by far the most comprehensive of any similar 
series thus far reported in America. In number of soil types ; in 
the number of treatments and checks ; in number, variety and range 
of age of the trees ; in duplications of the experiments of a given 
type; in the amounts of fruit involved; and in the fact that the ex- 
periments are distributed over the state and located as a rule in 
regions generally recognized as being well adapted to apple produc- 
tion — in all these respects we believe that the Pennsylvania orchard 
experiments enjoy distinct advantages over most previous eft'orts 
to answer the questions involved. 



40 



The results considered in the present paper are chiefly from 
lo experiments, containing 2219 bearing trees and involving 10 dif- 
ferent soil types. Some of the general features of these experi- 
ments are given in Table L 

Table I. Location, Soil Typks, Variktiks and Tri:ks in Ex- 
PKRiMENTs Away From thk Colli:ge. 



Expt. 






A^e 


No. of 


JN 0. 


County. 


Soil. 


V dl L1V_0. 


1911 


trees. 


21 5^ 


1 


PnrtprQ Inam 


York & Stayman, .... 


12 vr 


160 


216 


Franklin 


Montalto fine 












sandy loam 


\'ork & Jonathan 


12 


160 




xjeQiora 


Delvalb stonv 










loam 


York & Baldwin 


13 & 23 


160 


217 


n T* ^ n K 1 1 TT 
JL lcnirvj.111 


IVTnntaltn 












loam 


York and Gano, 


18 


358 


218 


Franklin 


Hagerstown 












clay loam 


York & Albemarle, . . . 


12&16 


400 


219 


Bedford 


Frankstown 


York, Jonathan, Ben 










stony loam 




9 


320 


221 


Wyoming 


Chenango fine 












sandy loam 


Spy & Baldwin 


39 


115 


n.36 


Chester 


Chester loam 


Grimes, Smokehouse & 












Stavman, 


9 to 11 


120 & 105: 


3373 


Mercer 


Volusia silt 










loam 


Spy, Baldwin & Rome 


1 


180 & 180 


338 


lyawrence 


Volusia silt 












loam 




23 


80 & 105 


339 


Bradford 


Lackawanna 












silt loam 


Baldwin & Fallawater, 


17 


120 & 16 



It will be noted that the soil types range from heavy clay loams 
in experiment 218, through silt and plain loams to light sandy and 
stony loams, in experiments 216 and 219. 

The first three experiments deal with the influence of fertil- 
izers, and involve 10 treatments and 6 checks in each case. The 
next four experiments deal Avith cultural methods and involve 12 
treatments in each case, except the last, which has six. The last 
four experiments are a combination of portions of the first two 
types and deal with both fertilizers and cultural methods* As 
shown in the table, the trees are of 10 varieties, though with one 



1 The names and addresses of the OAvners of the orchards in which these 
experiments are located are as follows : 215, Tyson Brothers, Flora Dale, 
Pa.; 216, D. M. Wertz, Quincy ; 220, Mrs. S. B. Brown, Manns Choice; 217, 
J. H. Ledy, Marion; 218, Ed. Nicodemus, Waynesboro; 219, J. H. Sleek, New 
Paris; 221, F. H. Fassett, Meshoppen; 336, A. Darlington Strode, West 
Chester; 337, A. M. Keiffer, Greenville; 338, J. B. Johnston, New Wilming- 
ton; 339, F. T. Mynard, New Albany. 

- In the two sets of figures in this and the following experiments, the 
first gives the number of trees under fertilizer experiment, the second those 
under different cultural methods. In Experiment 339, the latter includes 
only a mulch plot. 

3 Trees set out in connection with these experiments and not yet in 
bearing, hence excluded from consideration at this time. 



41 




m. - - i 

A Thrifty Orchard on Hagerstown Clay Loam. 

exception there are two or more varieties in each experiment. In 
age at the present time, the bearing trees range from 9 to 39 years ; 
and since the work started they have produced over 1,315,000 pounds 
of fruit. 

In this one item of fruit, we may call attention to the facts that, 
so far as American experiments are concerned, this amount is more 
than treble that reported in any other single experiment, and very 
distinctly more than the total fruit reported from all other similar 
experiments combined. This does not mean that the importance 
of the experiments elsewhere is to be minimized in the least, but 
it should help to emphasize the fact that, in those cases where con- 
clusions or attitudes are in conflict, very careful attention should be 
given to the actual and relative amounts of evidence upon which 
the differing attitudes are based. In fact, within our own experi- 
ments we can find the counterparts of practically all those reported 
elsewhere. If we had fewer experiments — for example, only one 
on fertilization and another on cultural methods, — our conclusions 
could be much more easily formulated, and we might readily be- 
come ardent partisans on either side of the questions, the side de- 
pending merely upon w^hich of the present locations our experi- 
ments chanced to have. In other words, if we attempted to base our 
conclusions upon any one or two of our present experiments, those 
conclusions would be very difi^erent from any we would now form- 
ulate, on the basis of all the results. There can be no doubt that 
when the whole truth is known, we shall be able to account for all 
of the facts, and this is what we are undertaking to do. 



^ For further details, see our Bulletin 100 and our Annual Report for 
1910-11. 



42 

The Influence of Fertilization. 



The first factor to which we shall give attention is that of fer- 
tilization. Can the yield, color, size and wood-growth ^ of apples 
be influenced by fertilization, and, if so, how and under what 
conditions? This has always been an important question, and five 
years ago, when we were starting our experiments, we could find 
no data upon which to base a definite, well-founded answer. We 
do not say that we can fully answer it yet, but such progress as we 
have made may be partially seen in Tables II and III. 



Table II. Inki^ui^nce: of Fhrtii^tzers on YiEi,d. (Johnston Or- 
chard, B.rperiment 338). 

(Total yields of fruit on each plot and annual yield per acre.) 



Plot 




2 


3 


4 




6 


7 8 


9 


10 




Check 


N.P. 


N.K. 


Check 


P.K. 


N.P.K. 


Check Manure Lime Check 


yr. 


lb. 


lb. 


lb. 


lb. 


lb. 


lb. 


lb. lb. 


lb. 


lb. 


1908, . . 


90 


528 


237 


446 


57 


759 


211 278 


558 


106 


1509, .. 


675 


6,018 


5,257 


1,932 


3,089 


6,621 


2,008 3,531 


1,216 


1,266 


1910, .. 


2,575 


3,265 


1,822 


3,168 


3,552 


2,108 


1,629 6,149 


3,185 


3,505 


1911, .. 


283 


7.563 


7,816 


017 


1,227 


8,209 


1,362 4,874 


388 


106 


3-yeai- 




















totals, 


3,533 


16,846 


14,895 


5,717 


7,868 


16,938 


4,999 14,554 


4,789 


4,877 


Bushels 




















per A., 


141-3 


673.8 


595-8 


228.6 


314-7 


677-5 


200 582.1 


191. 


5 195 



Table III. EFFECT of Ffrtii^tzfrs on YiKld. {Johnston 

Orchard) . 

(Average returns from certain treatments during past three years.) 



Treatment 


Checks 
(Av. 1, 4, 7, 10) 


Manure 
(Plots) 


N-Fertilizer P.K.-Fertilizer 
(Av. 2, 3, 6) (Plot 5) 


Totals 3 yr., . . . 


. 4,781 lb. 


14,554 lb. 


16,226 lb. 


7,868 lb. 


Ratios, 


100 


304.4 


339.4 


164.5 






100 


111.5 




Average - 

An. Yield per 
Av .Gain per A., 


A., 191.2 bu. 


582 bu. 
390 bu. 


649 bu. 
457 bu. 


314.7 bu. 
123 bu. 



These tables are from one of our ''combination" experiments, in- 
volving both fertilization and cultural methods, and started in 1908, 
The fertilizers have therefore had a chance to afi^ect the crop only 
during the past three years, and it is for that period that the totals 
and annual yields per acre are computed. 



5 Quality is omitted from consideration at the present time, not because 
we do not consider it important, but because as yet we have no measure of 
quality sufficiently accurate and impersonal to enable us to make satisfactory 
comparisons of the fruit under different treatments. 



43 



Even a glance at these tables can leave no doubt as to the posi- 
tive and profound effect of proper fertilization on the yield of apples. 
It will be noted that the checks run fairly uniform, averaging a 
little over 190 bushels per acre annually. Lime applications (at the 
annual rate of 1,000 pound per acre") have given almost exactly 
the same returns as the average check. The phosphate and potash 
combination has affected yield in this case rather decidedly, having 
raised it by 123 bushels per acre. This may be partly due to a 
slight superiority in location, as indicated by the fact that its ad- 
jacent check is the highest in yield and is within 86 bushels of the 
phosphate-potash treatment. While this increase in yield is fairly 
satisfactory, there is nothing in the growth or appearance of the 
trees of plot 5 that would lead one to believe that their treatment 
is appreciably superior to that of the checks. In other words, the 
trees of plot 5 still look starved and indicate that there is something 
else lacking, although it will be noted that this is the fertilization 
ordinarily recommended for orchards. 

This lack is very decidedly met by the manure treatment of 
plot 8. In this plot, the trees are making a luxuriant growth, both 
in wood and foliage, and the yields have been increased by 390 
bushels per acre annually, — a very satisfactory exchange for 12 
tons of stable manure. Even this increase in yield, however, is 
considerably less than those obtained on the plots receiving a nitro- 
gen-carrying fertilizer. Under the latter treatment on three plots, 
the average annual yield has been increased from 191 bushels on the 
checks to 649 bushels on the fertilized plots, or an annual inerease 
of 457 bushels of apples per acre. This resulted from fertilizer 
applications that actually cost less than $17, and the essentials of 
which can be bought at retail for about $10 per acre. During the 
past year, — the fourth year of the experiment, — as shown in Table 
II, the yield on plots 2 and 3, compared with that of their adjacent 
checks, was at the rate of 17 to i, the yield on the checks being at 
the rate of 54 bushels per acre, while that on the intervening nitro- 
^^en plots was 922 bushels. vSurely it is not necessary to further 
defend the thesis that proper fertilization may very profoundly af- 
fect the yield of apples. 

There is no reasonable possibility of these results being due to 
any other agent than the fertilizers. The trees are all of the same 
variety and same age. They receive the same spraying, pruning, soil 
handling and other care. The soil is practically level and very uni- 
form. The treatments are abundantly checked. In fruit, foliage, 
growth and general health of trees, the benefits stop abruptly where 
the fertilizers stop, and similar results are being obtained by the 
owner in other parts of the orchard, on the same and other varieties, 
with the combinations of fertilizers found effective in the experi- 
ment. 

In regard to the relative values of the different fertilizer ele- 
ments, it will be seen in Table II, that nitrogen is evidently the first 
limiter. Thus, the phosphate and potash combination in plot 5 has 
given an increase of 123 bushels per acre, while by the addition of 
nitrogen to this combination, in the adjacent plot 6, we get an in- 
crease of 486 bushels. In other words, the addition of nitrogen to 



44 



the treatment ordinarily advised for orchards, resulted here in 
nearly quadrupling the benefit. In plot 3, where the phosphates are 
omitted, it will also be noted that there is an annual deficit which 
amounts to nearly 80 bushels per acre. This doubtless indicates 
that phosphorus is the second limiter and that the yield in plot 3 is 
l^eing reduced by lack of this element. Potash applications, on 
the other hand, have been practically of no avail in this experiment. 
This may be seen by comparing plots 2 and 6. The annual addi- 
tion of 150 pounds of actual K2O in the latter treatment has resulted 
in a gain of only 3.7 bushels of apples. 

The above results were obtained without any aid from tillage 
or cover-crops, the fertilizers being merely sowed over the surface 
of untilled soil, on which there was a light sod composed chiefly 
of mixed grasses. Here the question may be raised as to whether 
equal or superior benefits may not have been obtainable with some 
form of cultural methods. This question is answered in Table IV. 

Table IV. Cultur \l ^Iethods \xo Fertilizers ox Yields. 
{Johnston Orchard). 



Plot XIII XII XI (Av.2&6) 

Tillage and 

Treatment Sod Sod-Mulch Cover Crop N-P-Fertilizer 



lb. lb. lb. lb. 

J 908, 1,170 2,265 2,843 2,813 

1909, 17,982 7,455 10,702 27,649 

1910, 2,940 16,789 17,254 11,752 

1911, 3,550 2,629 7,500 34,502 



Totals last 3 yrs., 24,472 26,873 35,456 73,903 



Ratios 100 109.8 144.8 302 

Ratios, 100 131.9 275 

Ratios, 100 208.4 



Average Annual Yield 

per Acre, 3 yr 223.7 bu. 245.7 bu. 324.1 bu. 675.7 bu. 

Average gain per A., 22 bu. 100 bu. 452 bu. 



In this portion of the experiment, which is devoted to cultural 
methods, the plots are larger and contain 35 trees in each. The 
yields of plots 2 and 6, from the fertilizer portion, therefore, are 
raised to their corresponding values for plots of equivalent size. 
Xo fertilizers were used on the cultural methods plots, until the 
season just past. They were used then uniformly on all treatments, 
primarily because the sod plot had gone two years with very little 
fruit, though all the trees of these plots were plainly in need of 
something additional. 

In Table IV the sod plot shows a little higher annual yield than 
the average of the checks in the fertilizer portion, this being due 



45 



to an exceptional crop tliat occurred on this plot in 1909, and from 
which the plot has not yet recovered. In the next plot, we see the 
eltect of adding a mulch to the sod treatment. In this case, al- 
though all the herbage that grows is left in the orchard, and a 
further application of 3 tons of straw per acre is added to the plot, 
the average annual gain is only 22 bushels per acre. In the next 
plot, we find that tillage and leguminous cover crops have given a 
fair increase, amounting to 100 bushels per acre on the average. 
This, however, is hardh" to he compared with the 452 bushel in- 
crease shown in the next case, which is obtained without tillage 
of any kind, merely by the addition of a fertilizer that carries the 
elements that are evidently lacking. 

In some quarters one would gather the impression that apples 
can scarceh' be grown without tillage. AMiile we have nothing 
against proper tillage as an orchard treatment, yet this and other 
results from our experiments show that it is by no means indispen- 
sible in the production of first grade apples and that it can be 
readily over-emphasized like anything else. There are many situa- 
tions that are otherwise very well suited for apples, where tillage 
is decidedly inadvisable, and where, with proper management, the 
trees would get along very much better without it. In such situa- 
tions it is undoubtedly preferable to sow the orchard down to some 
leguminous crop as a permanent cover and follow the mulch system, 
properly supplementing it with fertilization. For this purpose, 
hairy vetch is doubtless preferable, on account of its relatively low 
moisture draft, and its usually excellent staying powers when once 
well seeded down. Whenever it is crowded out by the grasses, the 
orchard may be re-plowed and again sowed to vetch, if the trees 
seem to require it. 

Data on Fertilizers from Other Experiments. 

Thus far we have confined our attention to a single experiment, 
primarily because the contrasts in it are so great that both the exist- 
ence and nature of the effects could scarcely fail to be recognized. 
To go through each experiment in this way would be impossible 
in our present space, hence we have condensed into the next two 
tables a statement derived from the results of six experiments, in- 
cluding the one just discussed. These tables show t^lie average ef- 
fects of the dift"erent fertilizer elements, obtained in six experi- 
ments, during periods covering from three to five years as indicated. 
The eft'ects are calculated as closely as possible and are expressed 
in terms of per cents, of benefit based on the normal performance 
of the treated plots. The methods followed in making the calcu- 
lations are described briefly in our Bulletin 100 from the Pennsyl- 
vania Station, and described in full in our Annual Report for 19 To- 
il. 



46 



Table V. Ei^:?e:ct oi^ Fkrtilizkr ElEmi^nts on YikIvD, C01.OR, 
SizK AND Growth. 

(Calculated Percents of Benefit.) 





Yield 


Color 


Size 


Growth 


Expts. 336, 338 & 339 


1908-11 


: 1911 


1909-11 : 


: 1909-11 


1908-11 




Per Ct. 


Per Ct. 


Per Ct. 


Per Ct. 


Per Ct. 


Nitrates in combination, . . . 


94.05 


1G3.1 


—13.3 


—4.81 


24.11 


Phosphates in combination, . 


36.65 


35.8 


—.95 


4.04 


—3.97 


Potash in combination, . . . . 


—4.65 


—6.42 


—.1 


13.2 


4.17 


Complete fertihzer, 


122.5 


166.4 


—16.0 


5.93 


27.50 


Manure, 


144.1 


169.8 


—14.3 


30.8 


37.49 




19.5 


—3.07 


—2.9 


19.4 


8.04 



Table VI. Fi:rtii,izer EivEmknts on Yikld, Color, Size and 

Growth. 

(Calculated Percents of Benefit.) 





Yield 


Color 


Size 


Growth 


Expts. 215, 216 & 220 


1908-11 


1911 


1908-11 


1908-11 


1907-11 




Per Ct. 


Per Ct. 


Per Ct. 


Per Ct. 


Per Ct. 


Nitrates in combination, . . . . 


41.7 


18.05 


—12.35 


—1.67 


14.83 


Nitrates alone, 


30.0 


39.10 


—16.00 


—6.23 


18.33 


Phosphates in combination, . 


15.4 


9.35 


—1.55 


.925 


.62 


Phosphates alone, 


—7.4 


-7.37 


2.80 


—1.21 


.52 


"Floats" alone, 


—18.8 


6.4 


7.70 


—1.92 


—6.00 


Potash in combination, 


15.2 


12.80 


6.55 


5.67 


2.71 


Complete fertilizer, 


68.8 


65.7 


—16.00 


4.30 


19.10 




101.— 221.90 


—9.90 


4.73 


24.70 


Lime alone, 


—12.0 


15.1— 


.8 


—1.05 


3.1 



In general, these tables corroborate and extend the deductions 
obtained from those already considered. The addition of the results 
from the other experiments have reduced the apparent benefits 
somewhat and the relative values of certain materials are also slight- 
ly changed. We have included the results of the first year in the 
yields of Table V, which also reduces the apparent benefits, since 
the fertilizers had not yet had time to operate. Even at that, how- 
ever, we see that the yields during the 4-year period have been 
nearly doubled by the addition of nitrates, in experiments 336, 338 
and 339 and with the same material they have been increased by 
41 per cent, in the younger experiments of Table VI. 

Phosphates, when used in combination with nitrogen or in a 
complete fertilizer, maintain their position as the next limiter after 
nitrogen, though they are closely pressed by potash in Table VI. On 
the other hand, neither acid phosphates nor ''floats" nor lime, when 
used alone, have shown any consistent benefits on yield thus far. 
Their apparently negative influences on yield may be smoothed out 



47 



in time, as indicated by some of the results of the past year. There 
is some evidence, however, that certain of these negatives really in- 
dicate a toxic action that is manifested only under certain condi- 
tions, but we have not yet carried this far enough for definite state- 
ments. 

The important advantage shown by manure, especially in Table 
VI, is doubtless largely due to the very full crops on the manure 
plots of those experiments during the past year, which was rather 
of an off year for the similar plots receiving complete fertilizer. 
The better moisture-conservation under the manure and the larger 
amounts of plant food carried in it also probably account for a part 
of the superiority. In general, however, we do not find any im- 
portant superiority in manure over a proper commercial fertilizer, 
neither in actual nor net increases. Alanure is undoubtedly a safe 
and valuable material to apply in orchards, when it can be satis- 
factorily obtained in sufficient amounts. But with very few ex- 
ceptions, thus far in our experiments as a whole, wherever manure 
has given important increases, these increases have been approached 
or surpassed by a proper commercial fertilizer. 

Correlation Between Yield and Grov^th. 

In regard to growth, it will be observed that, in general, the 
improvements in it have accompanied those in yield. The same 
materials that have improved the one have generally improved the 
other. In other words, as a rule, our best growing plots have been 
our best fruiting plots. Contrary to a prevalent notion, therefore, 
we may say that growth and fruiting are not necessarily antagonis- 
tic, but rather are associated, unless either should occur in abnormal 
amount. 

Data and Deductions on Color. 

In regard to color, it will be observed in Tables V and VI that 
none of the applications have given any important increases, and 
most of them have given decreases. Similar results have also been 
uniformly obtained elsewhere, so far as we have received the re- 
ports. The same is essentially true of applications of iron salts. 
From these and other considerations, therefore, we believe that color 
in apples cannot be materially improved by soil applications, and 
that it is primariily dependent on maturity and sunlight. 

This refers only to the red colors in apples. The yellow colors 
can probably not be affected by any external agency. Physiologi- 
cally, the yellow color is connected with certain bodies located in 
rhe superficial layers of cells in the apple skin. It develops inde- 
pendent of light, and its intensity depends merely upon the degree 
of maturity or ripeness. The red color, on the other hand, is a 
constituent of the cell sap; it is capable of being influenced by a 
number of agencies; and its intensity is dependent primarily upon 
the amount of light received during the latter stages of maturity. 
In other words, we get back to its dependence upon maturity and 
sunlight. Conditions increasing one or both of these factors, such 



48 



as late picking, light soils, open pruning, and sod culture will in- 
crease color. Opposite conditions decrease it. 

From this viewpoint, the reduction in color caused by the ni- 
trates and the manure is easily explained. It is evidently due to 
delayed maturity. That such is the case was shown the past sea- 
son, especially in the Johnston orchard, where the fruit of the nitro- 
gen plots was left on the trees until it reached approximately the 
same stage of maturity as that on the checks when they had 
been picked. The difference in the dates of picking, which cor- 
respond closely with the delay in maturity, was exactly three weeks. 
— from September 28th to October 19th. And when the final pick- 
ing was done, the amount and brightness of the color on the nitrate 
plots was actually greater than it had been on the checks. The 
average increase in color on the treated plots, 2. 3 and 6, over the 
checks, I, 4 and 7, was actually as great as 10.3 per cent. The great 
importance of maturit}' on the trees in increasing color is thus 
clearly shown. 

The importance of sunlight, we had already determined in an 
earlier experiment. In it, we found that after the apples were 
picked, exposure to sunlight increased their redness by 35 per cent., 
while the checks in the dark and those exposed to electric light 
showed no definite increase. 

\A^e may also mention the facts that color may be materially 
aff'ected by certain kinds of spraying and by internal variations such 
as appear in the solid-colored variants from the Gravenstein and 
20-Ounce. These points also are discussed in our Annual Report 
for 1910-11, but space is too limited for further consideration here. 

Relation of Fertilization to Size. 

Again referring to Tables A' and we see that nitrates have 
apparently reduced the average size of the fruit. Phosphates have 
given only a slight benefit, if any : while potash and manure have 
given quite important increases. This apparent benefit from potash 
is interesting, and it may indicate an actual fact, since size depends 
so much upon moisture and potash has been credited physiologically 
with the ability of increasing the osmotic power of plant cells. 

All these apparent influences on fruit-size, however, must be 
considered in their relation to the size of the crop on the trees. A 
year ago, we plotted a number of curves from data given in connec- 
tion with a fertilizer experiment at the Xew Jersey Station, in 
order to determine definitely, if possible, ^^'hether any relation exist- 
ed betAveen these two factors — fruit-size and size of the crop on the 
tree. We found that no correlation exists below what we may call a 
certain critical point, and that, under the Xew Jersey conditions, the 
number of fruits on even moderate-sized trees had to exceed about 
1400 per tree before any perceptible correlation appeared. Above 
this critical point, however, it is probable that crop-size is tJie dor- 
mant influence on the size of the fruit, though the exact position of 
the critical point may doubtless be raised or lowered somewhat by 
lo^al conditions of moisture, plant food, etc. 



49 




In our judgment, this has a bearing upon the fact that nitrogen 
has apparently failed to increase the size of the fruit in our experi- 
ments. The crop-size was raised so much that full size of the fruit 
v/as not obtainable. 

It also has an important l^earing upon thinning. It means, in 
general, that if one thins an apple tree of even moderate size be- 
fore the number of fruits has reached a critical point, which may be 
1400 or more, he can hardly expect to modify the size of the re- 
maining fruit, and the most eft'ect of the thinning will be an actual 
reduction in total weight of apples at least for that year. Excep- 
tions to this may appear in varieties of extra large sizes, or in sea- 
sons or locations that are exceptionally dry. 

It also means that, below the critical or the thinning point, there 
is opportunity for the other factors to exert their influence. It is 
here that such factors as fertilizers, cultural methods, moisture-sup- 
ply, and heredity show their efl:"ects. and they may co-operate in 
such a way as to materially raise the critical point. This assumes 
that the variety is properly located in respect to temperature and 
length of growing season, both of which are factors that mav have 
an influence on fruit-size. A\'e also may mention here the factors 
of pollination and number of seeds per fruit, which have been found 
to afifect fruit-size by Frost and ]\Iuller-Thurgau in Germany. 

A Suggested Fertilizer Formula, with Conditions and Time for 

Application. 

Having thus seen something of the possibilities of fertilizers 
in orchards, it remains to point out some of the practical applica- 
tions. In general, we may say that where there is probability that 
plant food is needed, a good fertilizer is one carrying about 30 pound 
actual nitrogen, 50 pound actual P2O5, and 25 to 50 pound K2O 



5^ 

per acre. In many cases, the smaller amounts of K2O will doubt- 
less give better net returns than the larger, though there are some 
soils where this is apparently not the case. In certain of our cul- 
tural methods experiments, a fertilizer similar to this has very 
good results, especially in connection with tillage. In some cases 
in connection with sod or mulch treatments, however, it has seemed 
probable that the nitrogen was hardly sufficient in the above form- 
ula, though this is a point that will have to be determined more or 
less by local trial. The nitrogen can, of course, be furnished by 
manure or leguminous plants to a greater or less extent, if this is 
found desirable. 

In a few of our orchards, moreover, no form of fertilization 
has as yet produced a material response. This we consider due to 
the presence of other limiters, of which iuiproper moisture supply is 
frequently important: though there are many other possible limiters. 

The existence of such orchards emphasizes the need of local 
tests before making large and regular expenditures for fertilizers. 
These tests can be readily made by treating one part of the orchard 
and leaving the remainder unfertilized. In the case of most young 
orchards, or in any orchard that is doing well in growth and fruiting 
and retains a thrifty foilage well through late August and Septem- 
ber, it is doubtless safest to fertilize only a small portion of the or- 
chard for two or three years and leave the larger part unfertilized. 
The fact that the trees are well loaded in a given year, however, is 
no sufficient reason for omitting the fertilizer that year. In fact, 
that is one of the best reasons and times for applying a proper fer- 
tilizer rather liberally, in order to prevent the total absence of a 
crop the following year, and in the long run to tend to steady the 
annual production. 

In case of the reverse conditions, — old orchards or those not 
retaining a thrifty look throughout the season or not growing and 
bearing satisfactorily, — it is best to reverse the procedure, and fer- 
tilize the larger portion, leaving only a small block to test the value 
of the treatment. In all cases, however, we strongly advise the use 
of a check until the real value of the treatment is well established. 
It is neither desirable to throw away money by too much liberality 
in the treatment of a crop, nor to fail to realize its possibilities by 
too niggardly a treatment. Either course is an economic blunder, 
and the latter is especially deplorable because its effects is to de- 
crease the productivity of the whole nation. 

The time of application also we consider important, especially 
in the case of the nitrates. hile our evidence is by no means com- 
plete on this point, yet we believe that it is quite posible to make the 
applications either too early or too late for satisfactory results. In 
fact, we have some evidence, from the work of certain orchardists, 
that leads us to believe that very distinct harm may be done by ap- 
phdng nitrogen too near to the fruit-setting time, especially in the 
case of peaches. Other evidence indicates that nitrates applied too 
early in the season may be wholly lost to the trees. 

So that all things considered, we feel that nitrates should be 
applied not earlier than petal-fall in apples and probably not later 
than the ist of July, though some of our best results have come 



51 



from applications as late as July 8th. 'Most any time during the 
period indicated will probably get the most out of the nitrate appli- 
cations. 

\\'ith the other less soluble and slower acting materials, the 
time of application is much less important. We know some careful 
observers, who even advocate the application of phosphate and pot- 
ash in the fall on peaches, and claim that they get the best results in 
that way. Our own feeling on this is that the time of application 
for the mineral fertilizers is of relatively little importance. In any 
event, they are rather quickly fixed in the soil and they do not leach 
readily. Hence, we apply them along with the nitrogen, letting the 
time of application for the latter, which w^e do consider important, 
govern for all. 

Fertilization and Cultural Methods for Apple Orchards. 

R. A. Wickersham. A\'hat would have been the result if you 
came into this section where they have good soil ? 

Dr. Stewart. Wt got some very good increases in our experi- 
ment in the Tyson orchard this past year, which was the first full 
crop on this experiment. 

Member. Do you prefer Nitrate of Soda? 

Dr. Stewart. We use it as a carrier of about half of the nitro- 
gen. Dried blood or other carriers should be satisfactory for the 
remainder. 

Dr. Mayer. Is the nitrate plowed in or harrowed in or put 
on the surface? 

Dr. Stewart. It is put on the surface and left there to be 
washed down in some cases, while in others it is harrowed in. I 
should not plow it in. 

Member. AA'hat variety in the Johnston experiment? 

Dr. Stewart. Baldwin. 

Member. Did you try lime on sod ? 

Dr. Stewart. Yes, we tried it every way. 

Member. Did you try Basic Slag? 

Dr. Stewart. Xot yet. \Yq expect to begin something with 
it next season. 

Member. Are you going to give us the formula ? 

Dr. Stewart. Yes, we will come to that afterwhile. 

Mr. Newcomer. How about the color of the fruit, is it a 
high, brilliant color? 

Dr. Stewart. When we picked the fruit on the X-plots of 
the Johnston experiment this year, there w^as more color and bright- 
er color on them than had been on the checks. 

Mr. Allis. Have you figures on the average cost of fertilizer? 

Dr. Stewart. $14.00 per year. S14.00 per year has given us 
an annual increase of 450 bushels of fruit. 

Member. How about the treatment where the grass grows 
rank ? 

Dr. Stewart. If the grass grovvs rank, I w^ould try to get rid 
of it. I would plow it up and plant vetch. 

Member. Have you had very good cover crops in that or- 
chard ? 



52 

Dr, Stewart. Yes, very good cover crops. Many of them as 
fine as could be. 

Member. Won't the roots get so near the surface in a few 
years that the mulch and manure will not have much effect? 

Dr. Stewart. This has not occurred in five years. I would 
not attempt to say what is going to happen in the next five. 

Member. What is the relative cost of the two ? 

Dr. Stewart. The cost of manure is usually much greater. 
The commercial fertilizer that we are suggesting costs about $10.00. 

E. C. Tyson. When you speak of $10.00, do you mean $10.00 
per acre? 

Dr. Stewart. Yes, $10.00 per acre. 

Member. The comparison in results between manure and fer- 
tilizer is hardly fair. The manure would cost us about $30.00 in 
place of $10.00. 

Dr. Stewart. Well, it is certainly not against the manure. 
There is much more plant food in it. It is much in favor of the 
manure, so far as that is concerned. 

Dr. Stover. Which one pays best according to your chart, so 
far as your expenses are concerned and the results obtained? 

Dr. Stewart. So far. I should say that in general we have a 
good deal more net gain out of a properly compounded fertilizer. 
The net results thus far have been greater. 

Relative Values of Fertilizers in Tyson Orchard. 

The relative values of the different fertilizer elements as indi- 
cated by the results in the Tyson experiment, No. 215 are of con- 
siderable local interest, hence the yields in this experiment are given 
separately. They are shown in Table \ll for the last four years, 
the fertilizers having been applied first in 1907. 



Table VII. Yields ix Fertilizer Experiment 215. (In Tvsou 

Orchard). 

(Yields in pound per plot, 1908-11.) 

Per Cent. 

Plot Treatment 

1 Check, 

2 Nitr. & Phos. 

3 Nitr. & Potash, 

4 Check, 

5 Phos. & KCl 

G Phos. & K2SO4, 

7 Check, 

8 Comp. Ftlzr., 

9 Nitrogen, 

10 Check 

11 Acid Phos., 

12 Raw Phos., 

1?. Check, 

14 Manure, 

15 Lime 

16 Check, 



1908 


1909 


1910 


1911 


Totals 


Benefit 


14 


95 


346 


2,053 


2,508 




26 


73 


301 


2,277 


2,677 


16.3 


43 


115 


418 


3,043 


3,619 


72.6 


21 


54 


260 


1,555 


1,890 




26 


146 


476 


2,828 


3.476 


78.0 


61 


179 


483 


2,352 


3,075 


52.8 


18 


45 


235 


1,777 


2,075 




21 


74 


300 


2,885 


3,280 


64.4 


17 


83 


239 


1,746 


2,085 


8.9 


17 


89 


150 


1,579 


1,835 




3 


43 


153 


1,359 


1,558 


—18.5 


4 


62 


164 


2,010 


2,240 


12.6 


31 


46 


103 


1.886 


2.066 




15 


52 


190 


2,333 


2,590 


24 2 


27 


86 


186 


1.765 


2,064 


—1.9 


10 


76 


115 


1,922 


2,123 





Total fruit involved, last 4 years 39,161 lb. 



53 



As shown in the table, the first important crop on these trees 
appeared in 191 1. Although some rather conspicuous difi:"erences 
were brought out by this crop, and also in some of the totals we 
are reserving judgment in regard to the significance of the results 
here until we get ftirther returns. The figures are given, how^ever, 
so that those interested may see just what the results to date are, 
and draw their own conclusions. There are some slight irregular- 
ities in this experiment in age of trees and of Stayman grafts, but 
we have made corrections so far as possible to eliminate their in- 
fluences. 

A careful study of this table brings out the rather surprising 
fact that thus far the ruling element on yield here has not been 
nitrogen, but potash. The relatively low influence of nitrogen is 
consistently shown in the resiflts of plots 2 and 9 and also in the 
manure plot. The strong influence of potash is shown just as con- 
sistently in the results of plots 3. 5, 6 and S. It is evident, there- 
fore, that so far as can be judged from present indications in this 
experiment, a fertilizer relatively rich in potash should be used. 

These indications may be connected with certain things in the 
previous treatment of the soil here and with the fact that the usual 
orchard tillage has been maintained over the tree roots. Thus the 
necessity for nitrates has doubtless been reduced. The appearance 
and growth of the trees on the nitrogen plots, however, is such that 
we prefer to await ftirther returns, before coming to any final de- 
cisions. 




54 




Packing Fixe Adams County Apples. 
(Mammoth Black Twig.) 



SIZE. COLOR AND QUALITY IN FRUITS. 

Dr. U. P, HedricK; Horticulturist, Xci^ York Agricultural Ex- 
perimental Station, Gcjiez'a, N. Y. 

]\Ir. President. Ladies and Gentlemen : It is a genuine pleasure 
for me to meet the Adams County Fruit Growers" to-dav. ]\Iv ac- 
quaintances and colleagues in New York, who ha^'e been here, have 
brought home glowing tales of the wonderful fruit region you have 
in Adams County, of the hospitality of the people, and the good 
meetings you have in this Association, and have had here for years. 
It is all the more pleasure because I feel that the two -tates. the one 
bounding the other, ought to be in closer contact in matters pertain- 
ing to fruit growing than they are. Aly subject to-day is "Size. 
Color and Oualit}' in Fruits."" I want to discuss the relative values 
of these three principal characters in fruit in particular, in regard 
to their great importance to this state. 

You are all aware that there is a discrimination against some 
of the fruits of the East. Side bv side fruit from the far AA'est 
is preferred in the markets of the country. None of us like the 
sound of this but it is well to face postive facts no matter how dis- 
agreeable. This discrimination is unjust for when the same market 
grades of most eastern and western fruits are compared, connois- 
seurs find the eastern the better. Unfortunately, public opinion 



55 



does not always march with the opinion of the connoisseurs. The 
difference between professional and popular judgment in this mat- 
ter comes about because of the general misconception of the relative 
value of size, color and quality in fruit. It is to a consideration of 
the values of these attributes that I ask your attention for a short 
time with the hope of suggesting something to stem the present com- 
parative unpopularity of the products of eastern orchards. 

Appreciation of fruits comes through three of the five senses — 
taste, sight and smell, though the last is of little importance, being 
so intimatelv connected with taste as to almost be a part of it. The 
senses of taste and sight remain. AA'e grow fruit to eat and it would, 
therefore, seem that taste should set the seal and symbol on a good 
fruit. But somehow a great number of people imagine that size 
and color are of more importance than quality and judge fruit by 
the eye rather than by the mouth. A misunderstanding, it might be 
said a quarrel, has thus arisen between the advocate of taste and 
sight. Extremeness of A'iew, misapprehension of purpose, and not 
a little intolerance, is shown on both sides. Let us discuss fairly 
and without prejudice the properties of fruits which give them 
value. 

When the nurseryman sets his net, in shape of an illustrated 
catalogue, for the fruit grower, he baits it with gorgeous illustra- 
tions showing fruits of heroic proportions. The most frequent 
descriptive phrase accompanying this alluring bait is, ''of largest 
size." In his turn the fruit-grower usually makes an exhibit, or a 
sale, or a present of his wares, with the apologetic yarn that he kept 
the largest for his own use, or he had larger last year; or, if you 
catch him in his orchard he lets you know that he could grow larger 
fruits if he were only so disposed. All this shows a craving after 
size — a craving that has been bred and is now stimulated by com- 
petitive exhibitions in which size is usually given first place. This 
has gone on for so long that now in the eyes of the "average per- 
son," personification of what we call the public, size is esteemed 
about the highest quality a fruit may possess. This feeling finds ex- 
pression many times at every fruit exhibit when onlookers remark 
in a deprecatory tone, "I've seen lots of apples larger than those." 
\Miat are the true merits of size in fruits ? The question needs 
careful consideration. We cannot make advance in horticulture 
until we know what we want. 

In tree fruits for the kitchen, fair or large size is distinctlv 
meritorious, saving waste in paring and coring or pitting though 
even here there are exceptions for one does not want a huge baked 
apple, a mammoth peach for canning, nor large plums for preserv- 
ing. But for aU dessert purposes the medium sized fruit should be 
preferred and the Fameuse or a little Lady apple, a Seckel or 
Doyenne pear, a Crawford peach and a Green Gage or Jeft'erson 
plum are, or should be, as acceptable as any varieties of their kinds. 
Certainly no one wants to make two bites at a cherry, strawberrv, or 
any of the small fruits. Size in fruit is often poor economv 
whether on the fruit stand, in the hotel or for the home, for a small 
or medium fruit frequently answers the same purpose that a larger 
one would. It is true that some of the varieties of our tree-fruits 



56 



might be increased in size to advantage and the value of many grapes 
and smah frnits would be enhanced by greater size. 

Xot always, but often, undue size in any variety is accompanied 
by inferior quality. This is especially true if size has been brought 
about l)y irrigation on rich land in which case the fruit may actually 
be said to be "bloated.'' The water and food are not properly as- 
similated, and the highly flavored solids of the normally grown fruit 
are diluted or adulterated with water. This is the condition of 
much of the western fruit which because of size and color is elbow- 
ing the less showy and less bulky eastern product to the rear. So 
too, extra large specimens of tree or small fruits in this region in 
which size is attained by high feeding or by such abnormal practices 
as ringing, usually lack in quality. From all this we must conclude 
that mere size is about the least needed quality for a good fruit. 

The dispute as to whether color is more desirable than quality 
is just as warm as the one over size and quality. Each has stout 
advocates and while both are necessary in a first-class market fruit, 
why there should be any question about the supremacy of quality 
over color, is unanswerable. We grow fruit to eat. What a para- 
dox to grow that which is unfit to eat provided only that it have high 
color. Here again western fruit has a decided advantage over 
that from the East, for the question of color is largely one of cli- 
mate. The fruit from the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Coast 
is certainly more highly colored than that grown east of the Missis- 
sippi. The sunlit West must ever produce fruits of brilliant hues 
for, like the complexion of Shakespeare's dusky Aloor, the color of 
fruits "is but the burnished rays of the burnished sun.'' Yet we of 
the East make a fetish of color and often times laud it as being 
quite equal or even more desirable than quality in a first-class va- 
riety, not only a mistake in judgment, but an advertisement for the 
fruit of our western competitors. 

Just now the fashion is for red apples and pears though red 
is not necessarily handsomer than any other color and certainly does 
not make the fruit taste better. But fashions in colors of fruits 
change in markets and countries just as fashions in colors of dresses 
or coats or hats or ties change. At one time russet apples or pears 
were in great demand. In some markets Yellow Newtowns, or 
Bellflowers, or Rhode Island Greenings are still preferred. Some 
markets like white fleshed peaches ; others, the yellow fleshed. The 
value of a black or a red or a yellow skin on a sweet cheery depends 
upon the market to Avhich it is sent. Color is for most part quite 
aside from the intrinsic value of any of these fruits else we should 
not have dift"erences and changes in fashion. A hungry man should 
be as truly thankful and should say grace with just as much unction 
over a Yellow Newtown as over a Jonathan or a Spitzenburg. 

Is high quality associated with intensity of color? A popular 
fallacy associates quality with color. Some say high quality is cor- 
related with low color, hence the oft repeated phrase, "handsome 
but poor" ; others say high quality goes with high color. Baldwin 
apples grown in sod are most brilliantly colored. Nine out of ten 
people will choose the highly colored fruit as the best flavored, but 
it needs only a taste to convince to the contrary. The tilled fruit 



57 



is crisper. juicier and richer, a fact attested to by all who have had 
to do with experiments in ^\'hich the fruit is grown under the two 
methods of culture. In this case the low colored fruit is normal 
while the high color is the hectic flush of disease. So in every in- 
stance, a seeming parallelism between color and quality may be 
explained. Individual instances seem to show correlations, but a 
general survey of all instances shows that there are no correlations 
either between kinds of color or intensity of color and quality. 

I quite realize that it is necessar}- for a variety to have a A-ogue,, 
because of some character or characters to create or satisfy a spec- 
ial demand, in order to "catch" the market. But need its reputation 
necessarily be made by its size or its color? If so, our western 
friends in all probabilities have us beaten. But when it comes to 
making a reputation for high quality, for choicely good apples, high- 
ly flavored pears, unimpeachably good peaches, and honeyed plums, 
the products of the middle and far A\'est are only tolerable in com- 
parison. A\'hy do not we in the East make the most of the condi- 
tions that have been given us and grow fruits of quality and stake 
our reputation on it? Let the westerners continue to grow their 
huge, highly colored fruits. In time the public will distinguish be- 
tween "quality fruits'' and those recommended by their bulk and 
the color of their hide. 

AA'e come now to a discussion of quality, a word rolled under 
the tongue by fruit-growers and consumers alike but which like 
"good cheer" in the fable is fl.sh to one, flesh to another, and fowl 
to a third. \\t need, therefore, to define the term. In brief, qual- 
ity is that combination of flavor, aroma, juiciness and tender flesh 
which make fruits fit for the palate. But this is not all. The thing 
that gives charm to the attractions of the world, whether books or 
pictures, or music, or people, or fruits, is that subtle undefinable 
thing called personality. A Northern Spy, a Mcintosh, a Seckel 
pear, a Green Gage plum, an lona grape, for examples, all have 
distinct and charming personalities which contribute no small part 
to the high quality of these fruits. But many fruits have it not 
and the sorts named lose it when grown under some conditions. 
This personality may be quite aside from any tangible qualitv. It 
is akin to the charm of a woman of which Maggie savs. in the cur- 
rent play, IVhat Every JJ^oiiian Kjiok's, "If a woman has it she 
needs nothing else in the world, and if she has it not, nothing else 
in the world is of any use." A high quality fruit should have some 
such personality. Is charm marketable? It is in marriage mar- 
kets. It ought always to l^e in fruit markets. 

High quality does not have the commercial value that it should 
but it is coming to be worth more and more. There are two kinds 
of taste, natural taste and acquired taste. Only savages have a 
natural taste : to them crude, unrefined tasteless foods answer all 
purposes. But civilized man has an acquired taste and with each 
succeeding stage of civilization it becomes more delicate and more 
refined. Once they but know where it can be obtained, people will 
buy and pay for fruits of high quality — fruits with delicate and re- 
fined flavors and aromas and juicy tender flesh. Such fruits should 
be the food of the great mass of the American people while coarse, 



How THE VuRK Imperial Grows in Adams County. 
(Every Apple Perfect.) 

turnipy fruits should go only to those who cannot tell the ditterence 
between a Jonathan and a Ben Davis, a Bartlett and a Kietter. Peo- 
ple need only to be educated a^ to what fruits are of high quahty 
and a profitable demand will be created. 

It may be asked why the fruits of the Atlantic are of higher 
quality than those of the Pacific sea-board ! It is largely a mat- 
ter, as I have said before, of food and water. But what combina- 
tion of these essentials produces it is still another matter and one 
that we know nothing about. There are poor fruits grown in the 
East as well as in the A\'est. Paul plants and Appolos waters but 
God gives quality. In His distribution of favors He has seen fit to 
characterize the fruits of this region by their quality and those of 
western regions by their size and color. A\'e who have quality, have 
been talking most about color and size which we have not. Sober 
second thought should show us that we should make most of that 
-which we have — quality. 



59 



There is of course a great difference of opinion as to which the 
high qiiaHty varieties are of the several fruits. This is as it should 
be for if all mankind liked the same varieties we should have but 
one sort each of the several fruits. Fruit-growing would thereby 
be greatly lessened and what in Heaven's name would all the nur- 
serymen do ! It is well that there are many varieties, the number 
is a measure of the merit, and to pick out those of high quality each 
man must choose for himself, wading through the dismal swamp of 
varieties until he finds what pleases him. The difficulty is to bring 
the good varieties before the public. 

In what has been said I have sought to establish two facts ; 
namely, that high quality is the chief of all the attributes of fruit ; 
and that the fruits of the East have it in greater degree than do 
some of their competitors. I have presumed to say, too, that East- 
ern fruit-growers take small account of quality which should be 
their chief asset ; rather do they magnify the importance of size and 
color, that which they have not, nor cannot have as some of their 
competitors do have. But there is little use in this discussion if 
one cannot be somewhat precise in telling how the condition that 
prevails can be bettered. To this end I have a few suggestions to 
offer — specific suggestions for individuals and general ones for the 
Society for this is a case where concerted action between individuals 
and societies is necessary. Speaking to individuals : — 

First. The individual fruit-grower of this region must come 
to realize in growing fruits for color or size they are beaten by the 
West and that their long suit is to grow for quality. This is true 
now but it wnll grow more and more so as the years go by. A man 
should grow sorts for the market that he is willing to eat himself. 
If individuals will make a reputation for the high quality of their 
fruits, a reputation will soon be established for the region. 

Second. Let every man deprecate above all things the oft made 
assertion that the public wants trashy stuff" — cares only for ap- 
pearance and not for quality. It is the fashion of the times to 
decry the public. Certain papers say the public wants only yellow 
journalism ; some w^riters hold that the people will read only light 
or vulgar fiction ; rag-time music is supposed to suit the public ; 
theatres will present only sensational plays ; following the fashion 
some fruit-growers hold that the public has the tooth of a gorilla, 
the taste of a buzzard, the stomach of an ostrich, and by choice fills 
its maw on Ben Davis apples and Kieffer pears. It is not true that 
the public likes poor fruit, the better the fruit the more of it will 
be eaten. The public is slow moving but once it learns true worth 
in fruit its appetitie will be for the good varieties. It will not be 
content with poor or mediocre sorts. If it must wipe the tongue 
around the mouth and titillate the palate in order to find the flavor 
of apples and pears, it will take to oranges, bananas, grape-fruits 
and pineapples. 

Third. It is a good policy in this world not to break rudely 
with the old but to run smoothly into the new. It would hardly 
be wise for any man to cut down or graft over certain apples, or 
pears or plums, or pull out certain grapes beause they are of poor 



6o 



quality. But in the planting of new orchards a man should look 
well to the quality of the varieties he selects. Speaking broadly, 
and noting the Kieffer pear as the most marked exception, fruits of 
fine flavor can be grown as easily as grosser tasting ones. Here we 
have a seeming paradox for the best things in life most often come 
only by the greatest care and extreme labor of mind or body. In 
planting for the future, then, plant for quality. 

Fourth. Never in the history of the world have there been so 
many men directing their efforts towards the improvement of plants. 
With the recent discoveries in plant breeding and the accumulated 
knowledge of centuries the efforts that are being put forth are 
bound to result in many new introductions within the next few 
years. A man may be pardoned if he clings to some of the medi- 
ocre varieties we now have for these are the elder-born to whom 
we have become attached in tenderly carrying them through a help- 
less infancy, but as the physicians and midwives of horticulture 
bring in the new born let us be chary of a blessing until their char- 
acter for high quality is established. Let them be "born to blush 
unseen" and if christened let them remain in the limbo of the nur- 
seryman's catalogue, if high quality be not among their accomplish- 
ments. Let us raise the standard of excellence and accept only new 
fruits which are superior in quality to their predecessors. 

Fifth. The nurserymen can do much to encourage the growing 
of good fruit and to secure the appropriate recognition of high qual- 
ity. The country is filled with men and women from city, town 
and country who want to grow fruit for pleasure and profit. When 
these embryonic fruit-growers pick the shell and get ready to plant, 
they go to a nurseryman for trees. Now if the nurseryman will 
sell all unfleged fruit-growers (the old hands should be able to take 
care of themselves) varieties of quality rather than what they can 
spare, fruit-growing and in the long run, the nursery trade, will 
have been helped. Some nurserymen hold it to be their inalienable 
right to substitute when varieties run short. If all such will only 
slip in a choicely good variety instead of an odd or an end, there 
will be less poor fruit. Nurserymen say they grow the varieties 
that fruit-growers want. In reality, however, they very largely 
force planters to take sorts that grow readily and make good look- 
ing trees in the nursery. Thus Canada Red, Winter Nelis, cherries 
on Mazzard, plums on St. Julian, cannot be had in the average nur- 
sery. Trees for the orchard must be grown in the nursery ; trees 
grown in the nursery must be sold to the fruit-grower ; the weal or 
the woe of the fruit-grower is the weal or the woe of the nursery- 
man. If tree-growers would push the sale of varieties and trees 
that are truly most useful to the tree-planter, nurserymen, fruit- 
growers and the public all will be gainers thereby. 

Leaving now the individual there are some things that horti- 
cultural organizations can do to forward the interests of high qual- 
ity fruit and hence the interests of all eastern fruit-growers. 

It should be the business of eastern horticultural societies, one 
and all, to make the public familiar with the names and the qualities 
of fruits. With this knowledge fruit-buyers would pay the dif- 



6i 



ference between good and poor quality varieties just as they pay 
the difference between a porterhouse and a pot stew. Why should 
they not? There are several ways of reaching the public in this 
matter. Fruit-growers and their customers may both gain knowl- 
edge of what are the best fruits, and which of them may be grown, 
by a full and frank discussion of the w^hole matter at horticultural 
meetings- County and state fruit organizations ought to do more 
in the way of making instructive exhibits both at their meetings and 
at the fairs. In these exhibits much more attention ought to W 
paid to fancy fruit — high quality fruit. Indeed, it seems to mc 
that higher premiums ought always to be offered for choicely goo^'' 
fruits in plates or in boxes or barrels than for the varieties of pooret 
quality. Sometime, and it ought not be long delayed, the fruit 
growers of the East ought to get together, through their horticul- 
tural organizations, and hold a monster fruit show in one of our 
great cities as the fruit growers of the Middle West and the North- 
west are now doing yearly. These great fairs are likely to be held 
yearly in the W^est. Is the East to be behind in this matter? If 
such a fair is ever held we must advertise in no uncertain way the 
high quality of eastern fruit. This is a matter in which the East 
has been altogether too modest. The world thinks the western 
fruit is best ; teach them otherwise. A rhyme of the trade once be- 
fore quoted in this connection is worth repeating : — 

"He who whispers down the well, 
About the goods he has to sell, 
Does not reap shining, golden dollars. 
Like he who climbs a tree and hollers." 

In conclusion : Why do I discuss this matter ? Is it to en- 
courage fruit-growing only for a select few who have the cultivated 
taste? Not by any means. The common taste which falls to with 
a vigorous appetitite upon any fruit presented is now, and must 
ever be, the chief customer of the fruit-grower. But taste of the 
multitude should be educated by all possible means for better and 
better fruits. Why ? Because in the long run it means the con- 
sumption of a great deal more fruit the country over ; and for the 
selfish reason that the Eastern States can grow fruit of exceptionally 
high quality but cannot compete with other regions in' size and color 
of fruit. Do I hold that it is reprehensible to grow fruits of poor 
quality? Possibly not, but it would seem in the course of time the 
wiping out, root and branch, of the apple and pear industry of 
the East if all fruit-growers grew poor varieties ; besides it would 
present the vile and sordid spectacle of people deliberately de- 
voting themselves to growing poor fruit when they might as well 
grow good fruit. Do I say that high quality is the only requisite 
of a good variety? No, indeed. There are a score of requisites of 
fruit and tree that go to make a good variety but among these qual- 
ity is not now receiving appropriate recognition and it is for such 
recognition that I am pleading. Is this a matter of sentiment or 
of business ? Both. I am not averse to putting some sentiment in 
fruit-growing but I hope I have not been arguing before a packed 
jury in trying to convince this society that it is business as well as 



62 



sentiment to grow good fruit. Is this not an affair to be dealt with 
by fruit-growers? Yes, but in most well regulated enterprises 
someone must have the thankless task of blowing a whistle to wake 
people up or to tell them that it is time to get to work. I have 
been tooting the whistle and if I have tooted a little long and a 
trifle loud it is because of some anxiety lest the fruit growers of the 
East should fall behind or possibly get locked out. 



-o- 



Trinity of Success in orcharding — 

CULTIVATE— FERTILIZE— SPRAY 

—Bailey. 




Eight- Year-Old Unprunkd York Imperial Appli* 
Tree. 



63 




Adams County Grows Fine Fruit. 



THE MAKING OF CONCENTRATED LIME-SULPHUR 
AND ITS USE ON APPLES AND PEACHES. 



Dr. J. P. Stewart, Experimental Ponwlogist, State College, Pa. 

Historical sketch of lime-sulphur, and advantages in home pre- 
paration. 

Ingredients: Need for high purity in lime, — should be 90 
per cent. CaO or better and preferably with less than 3 per cent. 
HgO. All present commercial sulphurs are pure enough ; fineness 
important. Powdered commercial sulphur is preferred because of 
low cost. 

Formula: 1-2-1, or 1-2- 1.2, is best. Simple and effective. 
One pound of good lime enough for 2 pounds sulphur ; excess of 
lime favors crystallization, increases sediment and fails to increase 
scale-killing powers. Clear solutions without extra lime here dur- 
ing past two summers have completely eradicated scale on apple 
trees, with three sprayings at summer strength. 

One gallon of final product is about right for carrying i pound 
lime and 2 pounds of sulphur in home preparation. Gives a density 
of about 1.24 or 28^° Be'. Smaller volumes give greater densities 
but poor utilization of materials. Much larger volumes are un- 
economical in cooking and in storing. Variations in formula for 
special uses and conditions. 

The volume should not be permitted to run materially below 
desired final volume at any time during the cooking as this increases 
the sediment. 

Utensils: Cooker, measuring stick, hydrometer and strainer. 
Desirable forms of each. Upward straining type of strainer is best. 
Cheap unstandardized hydrometers to be avoided, and they are in- 
tended to test concentrate, not to use as a float in diluting tank as 
an indicator of when the proper amount of water has been added. 

Cooking Time: Until the sulphur is evidently dissolved, 
usually 40 to 50 minutes; either too much or too little boiling objec- 



64 



tionable. Color not a safe guide. Keep pellets and lumps of sul- 
phur broken during the cooking. 

Storage : A\'oid acids, CO2, and unnecessary contact with air. 
Use oil films or tight, well-filled containers. Three-year old sam- 
ple at the college unchanged. Crusts formed in storage may be re- 
dissolved, diluting as usual according to density. 

Dilution: fa) Process zvifli specific gravity hydrometer. 

Rule : Decimal of concentrate divided by decimal of desired 
spray equals total dilution. 
Examples : — 

.24 .24 .27 .27 

— = 8 or - — := 24 or — — 38 4-7 or — = 90 
.03 .01 .007 .003 

This means that a concentrate testing 1.24 is to be diluted to i 
to 8 (total) to get a winter spray for scale, which should test 1.03, 
etc. 

(h) Other methods: Dilution tables and floating hydrometer 
in diluting vessel. Latter is unreliable as an indicator of proper 
water addition, difirusion too slow. (For further discussion of these 
and other matters pertaining to lime-sulphur, see our Bulletin 115.) 

Densities and Application Times for Different Purposes. 

Sail Jose Scale, 1.03. trees dormant; or i.oi in summer at 
''hatching" time, followed by i or 2 later applications at ten-day in- 
tervals or as young reappear. Other scales, same. 

Blister mite, 1.025. just as l)uds begin opening. 

Peach leaf curl, T.02, just before the buds open. 

Apple and Pear Scab and apple worm. About 1.007 with lead 
arsenate if three applications are given; i.oi alone, or with the 
arsenate if only one application is given. Applications: (i) \\^hen 
blossoms are beginning to show pink; (2) May begin when petals 
are two-thirds oft' and finish w^ithin ten days thereafter; (3) About 
two weeks after second application. 

BroK'u Rot. Ciircnlio and Scab of stone fruits, (i) Lead 
arsenate, lime and water (2-2-50), when calyces or ''shucks" are 
shedding. (2) Self-boiled lime-sulphur. 8-8-50, and 2 pounds lead 
arsenate, about a month later. (3) Clear lime-sulphur solution. 
1.003, or self-boiled lime-sulphur, without any arsenical, about 3 or 
4 weeks before fruit ripens. The former alternative in (3) avoids 
staining of fruit, is cheaper and handier and has been satisfactorily 
safe in our tests the past two seasons. It should not be used exten- 
sively however, without preliminary trials in the locality and on the 
particular varieties to be sprayed. Peach spraying not 3'et as un- 
qualified a success as apple spraying. 

Spray Injury. 

Sometimes very important. When the sulphur solution is used 
at proper densities, the injury may follow excessive applications 



65 

(see our Bui. io6) , or be due to reactions between the lime-sulphur 
solution and the arsenical, making the latter soluble. Lime sulphur 
solutions containing any material quantities of soda or potash are 
especially dangerous in the latter respect. ( See our article on Peach 
Sprayiing in 191 1 Report of State Hort. Assoc.). 

We have wholly prevented the latter action on peaches during 
the past summer, either by using lead ortho-arsenate, Pb3 (ASO4) 
2, with the lime-sulphur solutions, or by precipitating the sulphur 
from solution with iron sulphate before adding the ordinary arsen- 
icals. The former method is preferable, which indicates the desir- 
ability of manufacturing the ortho-arsenate here in the East as well 
as in California. 

It also is probable that the ordinary mixed lead arsenates can 
be safely used with lime-sulphur solution by adding to them some 
free lead, preferably in the form of lead acetate or "sugar of lead," 
before combining them with the solution. The amount of the lat- 
ter actually required depends on the percentage of soluble arsenic 
and of acid arsenates present in the commercial lead-arsenate sam- 
ple and also on the amount of free lead already present. In gen- 
eral, however, one-fourth to one-third of a pound of "sugar of lead" 
should be sufficient to render safe the two pounds of ordinary lead- 
arsenate paste. 




ADVANTAGE'S OF SpRAYING. 

(Large Pile Perfect.) 



66 




PiCKixG Adams Couxty York I^.iperial. 
(Nothing but Fancy Fruit in Sight. j 



EDUCATIXG AX ORCHARD. 



Clark Allis,, President Xez^- York State Fruit Growers' Assoeia- 
tion, Medina, X. Y.-,. 



I\Ir. President. Fruits Growers of Adams County : I had sup- 
posed that the Garden of Eden was in Orleans County but it seems 
that this must be the site because this is Adam's County. In our 
county the chief commercial apple is the Baldwin. Baldwins and 
Greenings are in the lead, and will continue to lead for a long time. 

Like a child, the education of an orchard should begin before it 
is born. AMien possible, buy trees of a firm who gets its buds or 
scions from bearing trees that bear good apples, for there is a great 
difference in apples. AA'e have in one orchard what is known as 
"Gray Baldwins" and under no conditions are they as good as our 
red Baldwins. Two years ago. in cutting over S500.00 worth of 
scions for one of your sotithern nursery firms, we did not cut any 
from the Gray Baldwins. I want a tree to be thrifty, large and 



67 



fairly straight with three or more good branches low down. I do 
not cut back the roots or top unless broken. 

One of the first things I remember was "apple sprouts" and 
those "Remembers" were very painful, at home or in school, and 
I objected to the trimming of apple trees or boys. 'My father was an 
orchard fiend, takes after me, and all his trees were cut back to the 
main stalk — he had five boys. When I began to set trees for my- 
self, I followed the same bad plan until I was convinced "behead- 
ing" young trees was not the way to make the best orchard and most 
money. Two farms near me were bought by city men, one man 
a shipshod lumber dealer who m.ade a failure at the lumber business 
and the other a Polander. who did not know a tree from a boot 
jack : both set out young trees without any trimming at all, both set 
their trees next the road where I could see them at any and all times. 
Of course I broke that good old Bible saying "Fret not thy gizzard 
out" and proceeded to "Fret," but it did no good. Those fool trees 
grew better than any I had ever set out and it made me disgusted. 
I found the same conditions in a western orchard I visited. I also 
saw the experimental trees in which Air. Foster Udell, "the Baldwin 
king'' of Brockport, N. Y., proved out his belief that trimming of 
young trees was a mistake. His untrinimed trees were away ahead 
of his trimmed trees and still continue to lead. My first planting of 
untrimmed trees was in 1908 : I set 2,000 and all started to grow but 
one, and but six died later. Several Baldwins at three years of age 
bore 40 or more large apples. This orchard at three years had 
many apples and next year, as a four year old, we hope for a good 
crop. 

Orchard men tell me that I am making a mistake to let the trees 
bear so young, but I don't agree with them, and will not take oft 
any apples except to thin and encourage the trees to be annual bear- 
ers. This orchard has the largest trees for its age of any orchard 
I have seen. Bearing apples will not hurt virgorous trees like these 
in the least. All the trimming this orchard has received is to cut out 
branches that cross ; these are cut in summer. Every tree set since 
1908 on our farms goes in without trimming. The past season trees 
set without trimming have endured the worst drought known to 
Western Xew York better than trimmed trees. I think our station 
at Geneva carried on experiments on this line this year, which are 
favorable to the untrimmed trees. 

I like a low headed tree for my experience shows that trees 
headed low keep their large limbs farther from the ground than high 
headed ones. We are setting our permanent trees 4.2 to 45 feet 
apart with three fillers to each permanent tree. The trees are 
dipped in commercial lime-sulphur, 34° Beaume test i to 9. We do 
not dip the roots except as an experiment and have never seen any 
bad results from dipping the roots. The practice of dipping trees 
before setting is one that cannot be too highly recommended, for 
the dipping is so much more thoroughly done, is a great saving in 
time and does not require nearly as much liquid as in spraying. 

spray young trees the same as the old ones. 

The year before the orchard is set, I prefer to have some cul- 
tivated crop on the ground. The ground is staked out so a dead 



68 



furrow comes for every row, a common or subsoil plow being used 
to loosen up the ground to a good depth. In planting we give the 
roots plenty of room, putting in fine top soil, well shaken into all 
cavities, firmly packed with the feet, except the last few inches 
which are left loose as a mulch. The trees are set deeper than they 
are grown in the nursery. In filling the holes, we either bank up 
well with loose dirt which we cultivate down to a level through the 
season or leave the hole below the level and throw up with the cul- 
tivator. The former way is preferable if the season is windy. 

For the first few years some cultivated crop planted in hills to 
suit the width of the rows is advisable so the orchard can be culti- 
vated both ways. Tomatoes or sweet corn, smaller stalks, the lat- 
ter not planted too close to the trees, are good crops with some cover 
crop sown every year. Any of the legumes are good, but we usual- 
ly sow a mixture of mammoth clover, vetch and cow horn turnips. 
Mr. Udell, the Baldwin grower, attributed his success to plowing his 
orchard using buckwheat for a cover crop. He said, "My father 
w^as the first one to use buckwheat in orchards in our section. He 
began its use about fifty years ago. His orchard has not failed to 
produce a crop in over 40 years." To derive the most good from 
a cover crop it should be allowed to grow until May or June ; but on 
level ground some of our best orchardists plow late in the fall to 
save time in the spring. Fall plowing should never be done in hilly 
ground for "Erosion'' is a bad man to have on the farm or in the 
orchard. 

Spraying is the most disagreeable and costly job ever invented 
and "Satan" never comes around the farm at that time for there 
are no ''idle hands," everybody works, even father, he has to keep 
the steam pump running water into the large supply tank. We use 
gasoline rigs with tanks of 300 gallons capacity. One man on the 
tank to drive and spray the tops, one man on the ground with, 
a 50-foot lead of hose to spray the lower limbs. The orchards are 
sprayed twice before blossoming and once after. The first spraying 
I to 9 or 10 lime-sulphur for scale and blister mites. The second 
spraying i to 20 with arsenate of lead, 4 pound to 6 pound to 50 
gallons. As soon as the blossoming is nearly done the spraying 
begins on the Greenings as they are about the first to drop their 
petals, using i to 35 or 40 commercial lime-sulphur and arsenate of 
lead. We have not tried spraying in August, yet will this coming 
summer. 

This past season has been so hot and dry fungous diseases have 
not bothered after apples were set. Unsprayed orchards this year 
were free as well as the sprayed ones, but unsprayed orchards did 
not set much fruit. Already some are saying, "well spraying hardly 
paid last year so I won't do much at it this coming year." The lack 
of spraying on buds never showed better than for the past two sea- 
sons. Last spring a young orchard adjoining my farm blossomed 
full. I would have given $1,500 for his crop and sprayed it. I 
offered $500 per acre for this orchard. The man did not spray or 
work his orchard, he had a failure. A friend 1)ought a power spray- 
er, but he sprayed his neighbors orchard at the right time, leaving 
his own orchard for a later job. It rained so he could not do his 



69 



own orchard when it should have been sprayed. But he won't do 
so again, for his neighbor had a fine crop, while he did not have 

Fruit growing is one perpetual picnic. It is "up guards and 
at them" fifteen months out of twelve, although we do not have 
to fight borers in apple, but it is worth it for it pays in dollars as 
well as in the satisfaction there is in handling a crop of nice fruit. 

Apple packing is the most serious question we have in the fruit 
business to-day and dealers are the worst sinners and are more to 
blame for the poor apples packed than the farmer. We are pack- 
ing Xo. I "Fancy'' 21-3 in. up and No. 2 — 2^ to 2^/2, both grades 
faced with good apples of grade in the barrels with the rest of the 
apples, the same from face to the headed end, corrugated caps are 
used in both ends, a padded head is used to press the apples down 
first, then the head is put in. The best press we have seen is the 
Davis platform press with a large heavy iron ring nearly the size of 
the head to bring the pressure on the head where needed, instead 
of the center. This ring is an idea we have worked out ourselves 
and proves very satisfactory. 

Up to the present time we have put our apples in storage as 
soon as they can be packed with the packers sorting as fast as picked. 
All the drops and culls are drawn to the evaporator, keeping the 
orchard cleaned up as we go. 

At the evaporator apple prices are very satisfactory, 65 cents 
per 100 pounds for all that are on the ground and the culls. We ex- 
pect to have a cold storage on our own farm and draw the apples 
to the storage, and if we are in a hurry the apples will not be sorted 
until they are all picked. The apples then Avill be cooled ofi^ and 
will stop ripening. W^ill not ripen a bit from the time they are 
picked until they get into storage. 

Prof. Hedrick. Three years ago last spring we set out 24 
Baldwins, 24 Bartlett pears, 24 Elberta peaches, 24 Lombard plums 
and 24 cherries. Twelve we pruned as we had been doing in the 
past, thinning out the branches to form the frame work of the trees, 
cutting the remainder back to stubs. Is that the way you do it here, 
Mr. President? 

Mr. Eldon. ]\Iany of them do, probably not quite so short. 

Prof. Hedrick. Perhaps that is a little shorter than the aver- 
age. We cut out all the branches that we did not want. 

Member. What age trees? 

Prof. Hedrick. Two year old trees. The other dozen we cut 
out the branches we did not want but did not cut them back. These 
trees were set out a little late in the season. To my great surprise, 
the trees that were not cut back, in every instance, grew. We did 
not lose a tree. Of the trees cut back we lost one-half. In the 
three years that have elapsed since then, the trees that were not cut 
back to the stubs have made the best growth. Over the old method 
of cutting back when the trees were set out and then pruning very 
severely, I am sure that we have made that great gain of strengthen- 
ing the tree by not cutting back but simply thinning out the branches. 
All of you who have worked about fruit trees know that the largest 
and best formed buds are on the ends of the branches. We are 



trying the experiment of doing no pruning whatever, except to ctit 
out branches that cross and branches that spring from the body that 
are not wanted- A\> are not cutting back any from the branches 
that we want saved, hoping to get a somewhat better formed tree. 
So much depends upon the conditions and so much upon your idea 
of a tree, that I am not writing down an}: arbitrary rule. 

Member. Do you not think if you stimulated the growth of 
the slow growing trees with fertilizer you wotild get a quicker lot 
of fruit? 

Prof. Hedrick. Well, it is possible. 

Member. The untrimmed tree is higher up in the air in two 
or three years than the one cut back severely, but not so stocky. 

Prof. Hedrick. A\'hen you begin pruning young trees yoti have 
to keep at it. 

Member. Did you ever try cutting them back and cultivating 
a good growth the lirst vear and never pruning any more? 

Prof. Hedrick. I have not seen that done. I think we would 
have too many branches without cutting back. 

Memiber. Did you cut the peach trees back? 

Prof. Hedrick. We cut those back to whips, and curiously 
enough it happened to be one of those seasons in which the trees 
refused to throw out buds from whips. Some of our peach men are 
going to set their peach trees the same as we do the apples, without 
any pruning whatever. 

Dr. Stewart. I wonder if we are jtistihed in saying that win- 
ter pruning stimulates growth when e^'en in winter we are cutting 
off those most vigorous buds that you refer to. and I ha\-e noticed 
that growers in England lind that all pruning, regardless of season, 
tends to reduce growth and fruiting, so that my question here is 
whether or not we are really certain that winter pruning stimulates 
growth. 

Prof. Hedrick. I do not ctit oil any stimmer or winter unless 
the limbs cross then they have to come oti". 

Dr. Stewart. Personally. I do not believe that winter pruning 
stimulates growth. 

Prof, Hedrick. AA'ell, you do not and I do. that is all there is 

of it. 




71 




A Cluster of Adams Couxty Grown "Winter 
Ban ANA," (every specimen perfect.) 



TILLAGE VS. SOD-MULCH. 



Dr. U. p. Hedrick, Horticulturist, Geneva, Xezv York. 



Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen : Commercial fruit 
growing is a comparatively new development in America. The first 
settlers of the new world brought seeds of fruits from the old 
world, for it was impossible, with their slow sailing vessels, to bring 
grafts or the trees themselves. All of the old orchards came from 
seeds. The first great impetus to American fruit growing came 
just after the Revolutionary AVar, when a great number of men in 
different parts of America became interested in introducing new- 
fruits in America. They shipped to the old world the trees, flowers 
and plants that were found growing wild in this country, and 



72 

brought back varieties of the different European fruits. Horticul- 
ture had its beginning at that time. Steam navigation gave another 
impetus. Before that time trees and fruits could be carried over 
the ocean only with the greatest difficulty. With the advent of 
steam navigation these difficulties were removed and many varieties 
were introduced into America. At the same time the codling moth, 
apple scab, wooly aphis and other pests which before that time could 
not be carried across the ocean, were introduced. 

The third and chief impetus came after the Civil War. It came 
with the better transportation facilities whereby fruits could be 
transported from place to place. Until that time fruit had been 
carried from the producer to the consumer only by horses, but now 
railroads and steamboats came into use. Later developments have 
been the use of refrigerator cars, cold storage plants and means of 
evaporating and canning fruits. 

In the old days the fruits were wholly an adjunct to the farm. 
The trees were planted near the house and along lanes and fences, 
and in sod, and the orchards were pastured. The trees received 
comparatively little care. There was but little money to be made 
from fruit growing, but with the development of commercial fruit 
interest it was found necessary to change, and men began to culti- 
vate their orchards. It was found tliat the trees responded to good 
care. Fifteen or twenty years ago practically all the Experiment 
Stations were united in the belief that orchards were improved by 
cultivation and tillage. There were some exceptions where or- 
chards were planted on hillsides or wet land. Some of these excep- 
tions were so remarkable that much attention was called to them. 
One or two of our agricultural papers in particular, began to cite 
these exceptional cases as best for all. This led to a controversy 
as to the merits of sod and tillage. Our Experiment Station, at 
Geneva, N. Y., felt that it was necessary to try the two methods side 
by side. I want now to give you an account in some detail of one 
of these experiments. 

My subject implies a controversy. The disputed question is, 
Will an apple orchard thrive and fruit better under tillage or in 
sod with the grass used as a mulch ? The Geneva Experiment Sta- 
tion is conducting two experiments to settle this question. This 
paper is largely a report on one of these trials of the two methods 
of orchard management, the other not having been carried far 
enough to warrant a report. In a controversy of any kind terms 
must be defined, and to properly understand an experiment the con- 
ditions under which it is undertaken must be considered and I 
hasten to these tasks. 

Is it necessary to define tillage ? The definition is short and 
clear. To till is to plow, cultivate or to hoe the soil. Tillage is an 
humble word with its flavor of soil and its suggestiveness of sweat- 
ing toil but it is an old word and should be an honored one. It has 
rendered mankind untold and untellable service ; it is practiced 
wherever there is agriculture in the world and nearly all of the 



73 



plants which minister to the needs of human kind have been im- 
proved by tillage. To plow, cultivate, or hoe, to turn and stir the 
soil, and so improve the crop, or so improve the soil, these simple 
operations were the beginnings of agriculture and the beginnings of 
civilization and they have been the chief tasks of all civilized peo- 
ples. Tillage is so universal, and is so essential a part of agricul- 
ture that those who oppose it for any domesticated plant should 
look well to its origin, to its history and to its present place in agri- 
culture before charging it with evil. 

There are two words to define in the compound word sod- 
mulch. Sod is soil made compact and held together by the matted 
roots of living grass. A mulch is an organic material placed about 
trees to prevent evaporation and to furnish humus. The sod-mulch 
advocates divide into several sects in their manner of making use 
of sod and mulch. One sect keeps sheep on the sod, another pigs, 
and still another says the grass is not sufficient and must be supple- 
mented with straw or manure. 

We can understand the experiment to l)e discussed better if we 
take a brief glance at the philosophy of tillage and that of sod-mulch. 
The objects of tillage are so well set forth by one of the leading 
living authorities on the subject, Professor F. H. King, that I give 
them without a change of a single word. 

" (i) To secure a thorough surface uniformity of the field, 
so that an equally vigorous growth may take place over the entire 
area. 

(2) To develop and maintain a large efi^ective depth of soil, 
so that there shall be ample living room, an extensive feeding surface 
and large storage capacity for moisture and available plant-food 
materials. 

" (3) To increase the humus of the soil through a deep and 
extensive incorporation of organic matter so that there may be a 
strong growth of soil micro-organisms and the maintenance of a 
high content of water-soluble plant-food materials. 

" (4) To improve the tilth and maintain the best structural con- 
dition in the soil, so that the roots of the crop and the soil organism 
may spread readily and widely to place themselves in the closest 
contact with the largest amount of food materials. 

" (5) To control the amount, to regulate the movement, and to 
determine the availability of soil-moisture, so that there shall never 
be an excess or deficiency of this indispensible carrier of food ma- 
terials and through the plant. 

" (6) To determine the amount, movement and availability 
of the water-soluble plant-food materials present in the soil, so that 
growth may be both rapid, normal and continuous to the end of 
the season. 

(7) To convert the entire root zone of the soil into a com- 
modious, sanitary living and feeding place, perfectly adapted to the 
needs of the roots of the crop and to the soil organisms, — adequate- 
ly drained, perfectly ventilated and sufficiently warm. 



74 



" (8) To reduce the waste of plant-food materials through the 
destruction of weeds and the prevention of their growth, through 
prevention of surface washing and drifting by winds." 

It is impossible by any other means than tillage to obtain for 
the apple the conditions enumerated above; soil uniformity; soil 
depth or a commodious living room; an increase of humus; im- 
proved physical condition of the soil ; conservation and regulation 
of moisture; greater availability of plant food; a sanitary living 
place, clean, drained, ventilated and sufficiently warm ; and the de- 
struction of weeds. Are not these objects worth striving for with 
any cultivated plant? 

I am fortunate, too, in being able to give the philosophy of the 
sod-mulch and in the words of Mr. Grant Hitchings, who, as all 
know has been one of the chief advocates of it. Mr. Hitchings 
says : 

" This system gives one practically the whole Spring and Sum- 
mer to grow and market other crops, while the orchard is growing 
of its own accord a supply of vegetable matter for humus that all 
authorities agree is so necessary for proper soil maintenance. This 
means that you can do a good business without extra help, growing 
strawberries, green peas, early potatoes, etc., and have the money 
for the fruit in the fall to swell your bank account instead of paying 
it out for fertilizers and cultivation. Other advantages are that you 
can drive through your orchard to spray better on sod than on culti- 
vated soil, as the latter sometimes gets muddy, and also washes 
badly on rolling ground. You can allow your apples to mature 
fully on the trees, for if they should fall on the grassy mulch nine- 
tenths of them would be marketable. By making repeated gather- 
ings the yield will be largely increased and quality improved. With 
the mulch method you accumulate humus in your soil ; with clean 
cultivation you burn it out or exhaust it." 

We are now ready for direct evidence as to the relative values 
of tillage and sod-mulch for the apple. How do the systems of 
management pan out in a commercial orchard? The orchard in 
which the Geneva Station for five years tried the two methods is 
located on the farm of Mr. W. D. Auchter, at South Greece, New- 
York. The orchard consists of ten acres of Baldwin trees thirty 
years old, five acres tilled, five acres in sod. The soil is a medium 
heavy clay loam, rich, and containing enough gravel to make it por- 
ous. It was selected as typical of the average orchard soil of West- 
ern New York. The experiment being carried on is a broader one 
than a simple trial of tillage and sod-mulch. The experimenters 
hope to add something to what is now known about the food and 
drink of trees — how trees take them in, make use of them, and with 
what effects ; what influence soil temperature and soil ventilation 
have on the development and function of tree roots ; and among 
still other problems, what the relationships between grass and the 
apple may be. 

It should be said too, that the experiment is to run ten years at 
least and that the results now given cover but half the minimum 
period and are therefore in some respects inconclusive and super- 



75 



ficial. For instance, the discussion now centers around the yield 
of fruit. While of course the crop is the ultimate criterion of or- 
chard treatment yet the effect upon the trees as indicated by the leaf, 
wood and root development is quite as important an index of the 
ralue of tree treatment as the crop of fruit. 

The care of the two plots in the Auchter orchard has been as 
follows : The tilled plot is plowed in the spring and cultivated from 
four to six times ending the cultivation about August first, at which 
time a cover crop of barley, oats or clover is sown. On the sod- 
mulch plots, the grass is cut once or twice during the season and 
allowed to lie where cut and decay into a mulch. The grass crop 
has usually been large, but last year it was enormous, thick and tall, 
standing to the top of the fore wheels of a buggy and no one could 
say that it was ever insufficient for a good mulch. In all other 
details of care the treatment has been the same in the two plots. 

The ultimate criterion of the relative merits of the management 
to which an orchard is subjected is the crops of fruit obtained. It 
is important, however, that trees should grow well and for the meas- 
ure of vigor there are several characters of the trees available ; as the 
leaf area on the tree, the length of new wood formed ; the number 
of new shoots and the color of leaf and wood. The properties of 
the fruit, as size, color, time of maturity, keeping qualities and 
flavor must be noted. We come now to a discussion of these 
criteria. 

The effects of the two methods of management on yield of 
fruit are shown by the following figures : 

Bbls. sod Bbls. tillage 



1904, 615.1 591.9 

1905, 233. 278.9 

1906, 210.3 531.1 

1907, 275.3 424.3 

1908, 325.3 722.5 



Average yield per acre on the plots for the five years : sod, 72.9 
barrels : tillage. 109.2 barrels ; dift"erence in favor of tillage per acre, 
36.3 barrels. These results scarcely need comment. For an aver- 
age of five years the tilled plot shows an increase of a little over one- 
fourth above the sod-mulch plot. The figures first read show that 
each succeeding year the difference becomes greater, indicating a 
continuous loss of vigor in the sod-mulch trees. 

One of the chief advantages of the sod-mulch method, as put 
forth by its promulgators is, that it is a much less expensive method 
of caring for an orchard. The average expense per acre of the two 
methods of management for five years w^as $17.92 for sod; and 
$24.47 foi* tillage, a difference of $6.55 in favor of the sod. It is 
true that the outgo has been greater for the tilled plot but the in- 
come has been greater. The cost of production has been materially 
less for the tilled trees and that is the main point in the whole dis- 
cussion. A cheap and easy way of growing apples is not neces- 
sarily the most renumerative way. 

Leaving the yield of fruit for a brief consideration of the 
effects of the two treatments on tree characters we can mention first 



-6 



the leaf area. iMeasuremeiits of leaf area were not made but the 
merest glance through the orchard would show that there were more 
and larger leaves on the tilled plot than on the sod-mulch plot. The 
experienced orchardist knows that sparsity of foliage and smallness 
of leaf can indicate but one thing, ill-health. 

So, too, there was something amiss with the color of the leaves. 
It did not need a trained eye to detect the difference in color of fol- 
iage in the two plots. The dark and rich green of the tilled trees 
could be noted a half mile from the orchard indicating an abundance 
of food and moisture and the heyday of health, while from the same 
distance it could be seen that the foliage of the sod-mulch trees was 
pale and sickly. Of all the signs of superiority of the tilled trees 
the color of the foliage spoke most eloquently and more than one 
man of the hundreds who visiied the orchard was heard to say 
as his eyes lighted on the contrasting colors of the sick and of the 
well trees "that satisfies me." The absence in color in the leaves of 
the sod-mulch trees was due to a lack of chlorophyl or leaf-green. 
Chlorophyl is essential to the assimilation of plant-food and when 
it is lacking the trees become starved and stunted. The leaves on 
the sod-mulch trees assumed their autumnal tints a week or ten days 
earlier than those on the tilled trees and the foliage dropped that 
much earlier, thus seriously cutting short the growing season of 
the grassed trees and thereby impairing their future vitality. 

The new wood produced by the grassed trees tells a similar tale 
of injury. It was not half that produced on the tilled trees ; the 
twigs were not plump and well filled out; there were fewer new 
shoots ; and the wood of the mulched trees lacked the clear, bright, 
rich brownish tint of health so that in mid-winter one could pick 
out mulched trees and tilled trees by the color of the wood. 

As to color there is no question but that the fruit from the sod- 
mulch plot is much more highly colored than that from the tilled 
plot. This difference varies with the season. ]\Iulched fruit ripens 
from a week to two weeks earlier than tilled fruit. If the variety 
and the season are such that the tilled fruit can remain on the trees 
some days after the mulched fruit must be picked the difference in 
color is much less. The lighter color of the tilled fruit is readily 
and clearly explained. The coloring matter in the skin of the apple 
like that in the leaves, consists of chlorophyl or leaf-green. The 
coloring of ripening fruit is due to the changing of the chlorophyl 
of the skin into the colored substances of autumnal tints. There- 
fore since the sod fruit ripens earlier it colors earlier and in most 
seasons better. 

The abnormally high color of the sod fruit in this orchard is 
one of the most marked signs of the deleterious eff'ect of the sod 
on the trees. Every man of experience has observed that when a 
tree is starved, stunted, girdled, or injured, its foliage and its fruit 
take on high color. Radiant color in fruit or leaf is often the hectic 
flush of a diseased patient. The bright color of the fruit of the sod- 
mulched trees may be purchased at the expense of the vigor and the 
health of the tree. 



77 




A Well Tilled Orchard. 



The latter ripening period of the fruit on the tilled plot Avould 
be a defect with some varieties and in some localities but in general 
in Xew York late ripening is an advantage. 

Fruit from both plots for the five years has been kept in cold 
storage to test the relative keeping qualities. This work has been 
in charge of 'Mr. G. H. Powell, the cold storage expert of the United 
States Department of Agriculture, who writes me in brief : "There 
appears to have been little practical difi^erence in keeping quality 
between fruit from sod land and fruit picked a few days later from 
the tilled land." 

There is but little difi:"erence in the quality of the fruit when 
specimens can be had at the same degree of maturity. But the tis- 
sues of the sod-mulch fruit begin to break down so quickly after 
harvesting that at any time after this period the tilled fruit is better 
in quality. This has been true in all of the five seasons, a fact af- 
firmed by repeated testing by those in charge of the experiment and 
attested by many who have seen the fruit at the Geneva Station, at 
horticultural meetings and at institutes. The more pleasing color 
of the sod-mulch fruit leads many to think it is of higher quality 
but it requires only a taste to convince to the contrary. 



78 



In considering the causes of the differences noted between the 
two systems of management we can do little more than state the 
hypotheses which seem to account for the results. The experiment 
is by no means concluded and definite reasons cannot be advanced 
until all the proof is in. Yet it seems to me I am warranted in offer- 
ing the following hypotheses : 

First. Plant food is more available in the tilled plot than in the 
sod plot. That there is an abundance of the plant food necessary for 
the welfare of the trees and the production of crops in both plots is 
certain. For the trees in the tilled plots showed in all respects, 
good feeding, and such trees in the sod-mulch' plots as could get anv 
considerable portion of their roots in soil where there were no 
grass roots, likewise seemed to be well fed. INIoreover, two of the 
chief elements of plant food, potash and phosphoric acid, were 
added to a part of the trees in each plot for three successive sea- 
sons and without appreciable results in either case. It is evident 
that there is plenty of food in the sod land but for some reason it is 
not available to the apple trees. The trees are starving in a land of 
plenty. 

Second. The sod-mulch does not conserve moisture as well 
as tillage. The chief study in the Auchter orchard for the summer 
of 1907 was that of the water content of the soil in the two plots. 
One hundred twenty-eight samples of soil were taken at different 
times during the summer and under conditions safe-guarded in every 
way possible to determine accurately the amount of moisture in the 
soil. The analyses showed, approximately, that the water content 
in the tilled soil during the past summer, was twice as great as in 
the sod plot, thereby substantiating what has long been claimed that 
tillage is a better means of conserving moisture than mulching. 

Trees must have water. If an apple tree bears ten barrels of 
fruit, there are about eight and one-half barrels of water in the tree's 
output. In a full grown apple tree it is estimated that the total leaf 
area is about 1,000,000 square inches. i\Ir. F. C. Stewart of the 
Geneva Station has counted the stomata or pores on a square inch 
of the apple leaf and finds that a fair average is about 150,000 per 
square inch. Or for the leaf area of the whole tree, 150,000,000,000 
pores. Now to supply the demands of its ten barrels of apple chil- 
dren while these mo,ooo,ooo,ooo pores are constantly giving mois- 
ture is enough to drive a tree to drink and the apple tree becomes 
a hard drinker. When in the heat and drought of summer, the 
apple tree is compelled to share its scant supply of water with the 
thirsty horde of hangers-on found in an orchard sod the trees 
must sufl:*er. Still further, a diminished water supply entails a cut- 
ting ofi:" of the food supplv. Plant food enters the tree as a solu- 
tion and an apple tree suffering from lack of water as a necessary 
consequence suffers from a lack of food. A thirsty plant is a 
hungry plant. 

Third. The sod-mulch soil is less well aerated. In the ex- 
periments we are carrving on I have not attempted to secure evi- 
dence on this point. It is obvious that sod interferes with the air 
supply in the ground beneath it and it is not hard tQ believe that such 



79 



interference would hinder the proper development and prevent the 
proper work of roots. The muffler of mulch which forms a part 
of this system of orchard management would of course intensify the 
deleterious effects of the sod in the above respect. 

Fourth. The soil temperature is lower in the sod-mulch plots 
than in the tilled plots. It is possible that the harmful action of 
grass on trees may be accounted for in part by the influence of the 
sod on the temperature of the soil. During the summer of 1907 
the soil temperatures were taken in the tilled and mulched plots 
twice a day for 41 days at the depth of six and twelve inches and 
under as nearly comparable conditions as circumstances would per- 
mit. At both depths the difference was in favor of the tilled plot. 
At six inches the difference was slight, being only one-third of a 
degree but for the greater depth, twelve inches, the average in 
favor of the tilled plot was degrees. It is not an assumption 
to say that the higher temperature is most favorable to the growth 
of the apple tree, for plant physiologists, soil physicists and bacter- 
iologists agree that an increase in soil temperature is favorable to 
plant growth. As one of them puts it, "The soil is a great factory 
that has its production vastly increased as the temperature rises." 

Fifth. There are probably differences in the biological or 
*'germ life" activities taking place in the soil. This is a matter upon 
which I am not qualified to speak with certainty. But I know that 
the men who are studying soils find that there are various kinds of 
micro-organisms inhabiting the soil which have much to do with 
the proper functioning of the roots that grow therein. The soil is 
teeming with countless millions of living organisms which bring 
about necessary changes of one kind and another in that soil ; with- 
out them higher vegetation would not grow. Now the activities of 
these beneficient organisms are dependent on soil conditions and 
King tells us, in the quotation given above, that tillage induces a 
strong growth of soil micro-organisms ; that it improves tilth so that 
soil organisms may spread readily and widely ; and that it converts 
the root zone into a commodious and sanitary living-place for the 
soil organisms." 

Sixth. The grass may have a toxic or poisonous effect on apple 
trees. At the Fifthieth Annual Meeting of the Western New York- 
Horticultural Society the speaker gave an account of a series of pot 
experiments which seemed to show that grass roots in some wav 
poisoned peach trees s^rowing. The United States Department of 
Agriculture has published a number of observations and experi- 
ments to show that different plants growing in the same soil may 
poison each other. 

I am able to give also the results of a most excellent series of 
experiments planned and carried out on the Woburn Experimental 
Farm in England. These experiments were planned to show the 
effects of growing trees in grass, the latter to be used as a mulch. 
The following gives the gist of the results of the experiments in 
question : 

"As to the general effect produced by grass on young apple trees, 
the results of the last few years have brought forward nothing 



8o 



which can in any way modify our previous conclusions as to the 
intensely deleterious nature of this effect, and we can only repeat 
that no ordinary form of ill treatment — including even the combina- 
tion of bad planting, growth of weds and total neglect — is so harm- 
ful- to the trees as growing grass round them. " * The evidence 
which we shall bring forward will, we believe, be sufficient to dis- 
pose of the views that the grass effect is due to the interference with 
either the food supply, the water supply or the air supply of the 
tree, and that it must in all probability be attributed to the action 
of some product, direct or indirect, of grass growth which exercises 
an actively poisonous effect on the roots of the tree." I do not put 
forth the statement that grass poisons the apple as one having been 
proved but I say that it may be so. 

In conclusion you are warned that particular cases do not 
warrant general conclusions. The Auchter experiment is in man}' 
respects a particular case and the apple grower must bear in mind 
that under other conditions, his own perhaps, the trees might have 
behaved very diff'erently. The Auchter orchard was selected as 
being typical of Western Xew York conditions and the results ob- 
tained may therefore be regarded as especially applicable to this 
region. But there are peculiarities of soil and location which 
might change them e^-en in Western Xew York, and no doubt they 
would be more or less changed in Pennsylvania. It is a simple 
matter for an orchardist to plow up a part of a sodded orchard and 
cultivate it for a few years : or as easy, for one who has a tilled 
orchard to lay a part of it down to grass, cutting the grass as a 
mulch, and in a few years he can see what happens. We want more 
experimenters among fruit growers and these are good experiments 
to try when a man becomes dissatisfied with the crops of apples he 
is getting. 

The opportunity of giving another warning can not be lost. 
The sod-mulch method is heralded as the cheap-and-easy method. 
But some men can not stand cheap-and-easy methods. If they be- 
gin by applying it to tillage they are likely to look for a cheap-and- 
easy way of planting, the Stringfellow vray for instance, a cheap- 
and-easy way of pruning and a cheap-and-easy way of spraying 
Some will disembarass themselves Avith the necessity of taking care 
of their trees at all and in the end will wind ud as ornery, no-account 
apple growers. I do not mean to sav that all will but some of them 
will. You remember no doubt in Pilgrim's Progress how Bunyan's 
characters had their natural associates. Thus the young lady whose 
name was Dull chose as her companions. Simple, Sloth, Linger- 
after-lvUst, Slow-pace, No-heart and Sleepy-head. Cheap-and-easy 
has his natural associates and they are a bad lot. Take care how 
you cultivate their acquaintance. Better keep them under a sod- 
mulch. 

In chemistry, physics, astronomy and all of the exact sciences 
the workers constitute a iury of keen, trained men before wdiich new 
doctrines can be tried. The jury is always sitting and false doctrine 
is quickly weeded out. Agriculture has no such jury. Its workers 
are scattered : many are apathetic ; they differ in training and in 
degree of intelligence ; and they speak many languages. There can, 



8i 



therefore, be no suitable jury to try new doctrine, and there are no 
recognized authorities to approve or disapprove of them. It comes 
about, therefore, that false and erroneous doctrines often grow un- 
heeded and choke out the true and the useful. Agriculture needs 
now and ever to be defended against false doctrine. I am ventur- 
ing to play the part of a defender to-day and if I have gone far 
in defense of tillage and in condemnation of sod-mulch it is because 
there is need. 

C. J. Tyson. Has there been any possil^ility of advantage of 
cover crops ? 

Mr, Hedrick. The tilled plot of the orchard has always been 
well supplied with nitrogen through cover crops plowed under. The 
sodded trees have always responded to applications of Xitrate of 
Soda. 

Mr. Allis. Have you any figures showing the increased income 
from that orchard after it got on its feet from cultivation? 

Mr. Hedrick. I have the figures that were published in our 
bulletin. For every Sioo we have taken from the sod plot, we have 
taken S150 from the tilled plot. I think I may say that during the 
time this experiment has been running in western Xew York there 
has been a tremendous increase in number of tilled orchards. There 
are, of course, a good many neglected orchards now in sod, but more 
and more the growers of this fruit, as with other fruits, are coming 
to till their trees as they till their corn or any other crop. I believe 
that ]\Ir. Allis will agree with me that tillage is almost the invariable 
rule in western Xew York. 

C. J. Tyson. I think that this sul^ject was suggested here for 
the reason that we are not by any means of one mind on the ques- 
tion of sod and tillage, and simpl}' for the sake of bringing out the 
other side, I would like to ask your opinion of this proposition : 
\\'hether the expenditure of the dift"erence in the cost of handling 
the sod and the tillage in manure, mulch, fertilizer or sod, might not 
bring as good results as the tilled method ^ 

Prof. Hedrick. It won't bring it in X'ew York. have 
tried that ^•ery thing. AA'e have used Xitrate of Soda in excess and 
yet we can't bring the trees up any way near the capacity of those 
that are tilled. I have seen the two methods carried on so long, 
both in eastern and western X'ew York, and have worked so much 
with these kinds of tillage with trees, that it seems to me almost cer- 
tain that where tillage can be given it is the better of the two 
methods. 

Member. Do oats and barley supply nitrogen? 

Prof. Hedrick. Oats and barley do not supply X^itrogen. 

R. M. Eldon. If land is moderately steep or rolling, how 
would you alternate tilling it and leaving it in sod? 

Prof Hedrick. That can be done well, especially if you use 
clover as sod. Bluegrass would not do so well, but to alternate 
clover with tillage is a very good plan on land that is too steep to 
till every year. The addition of organic matter in the shape of 
straw or hay is absolutely impossible in X^ew York. You must grow 



82 



on the land the mulch you are going to place under the trees. If 
you can buy straw at a reasonable rate, to cover the ground, it will 
far better take the place of tillage than the sod-mulch. 

Member. Have the eight year old trees in the Hitchings or- 
chard borne any fruit? 

Prof. Hedrick. No. In the last two years we have had blos- 
soms and ought to have had crops of fruit, but both years the blos- 
soms have been killed with frost, which accounts for our not having 
had a crop. 




One Section of Adams County Fruit Which Won BeuE Ribbons at 
Recent Fruit Show in Pittsburg — York, Stayman and Grimes. 



83 




An Ohio Cold Storage House. 



COLD STORAGE A NECESSITY. 



]^Ir. Clark Allis, Medina, X. Y.. Commercial Orchardist (500 
acres in apple), and President Xezu York Fruit Groivers Asso- 
ciation. 



^Ir. President, Ladies and Gentlemen : The reason I have been 
studying lately on the storage problem is because the buyer seems 
to have a corner on the storage question, with us. and wants a large 
share of the profit. What I say may not be right or to the point, but 
it is as I have found it. I saw a clipping in a paper this week in 
which the opportunity is so great that I am not sure but some of our 
fruit growers had not better go into this instead of fruit growing. 

Millions in It. 

A brilliant plan for getting rich is being worked out by an 
enthusiastic promoter. Only the chance to buy stock in it ("tele- 
graph your order!") remains. The company is to operate a laree 
cat ranch near Oakland, California. To start wnth, the promoter will 
collect about 1,000,000 cats. Each cat will average twelve kittens 
a year. The skins will run from 10 cents each for the white ones 
to 75 cents for the pure black. This will give 12,000,000 skins a 
year to sell at an average of 30 cents apiece, making a rcA-enue of 
about Sio.ooo a day gross. A man can skin fifty cats per dav for 
$2. It will take one hundred men to operate the ranch, and there- 
fore the net profit will thus be $9,800 per dav. The cats will feed 
on rats and a rat ranch will be started next door. The rats multi- 
ply four times as fast as cats. One million rats will give four rats 



84 



per day for each cat. The rats will feed on the carcasss of the cats 
from which the skins have been taken, giving each rat a fourth of 
a cat. The business will be self-supporting and automatic. The 
cats will eat the rats and the rats will eat the cats, and the company 
will get the skins. Telegraph your order. 

My county ''Little Orleans," is less than twenty by twenty-five 
miles in size, yet it produces more apples than any place the same size 
in the world, and has thousands of acres of young orchards not pro- 
ducing Yet, "but soon." Five shipping points in western New York 
ship more apples than the entire states of Washington and Oregon. 

Our county has seven cold or chemical storage houses with a 
capacity of 313,000 barrels, which did not begin to take the apples 
produced this year when a light crop. What will the fruit growers 
do with their apples when a full crop. This year many of the apples 
were sent out of the county to be stored, as long as storage could be 
obtained. When no more storage could be secured, apples were sold 
at a low price. Some storages that had promised to take growers' 
apples suddenly gave out the notice, "Storage all taken, no more 
room.'' One storage that gave out this report had an agreement with 
a western buyer not to raise the price of apples and they would both 
get apples cheap and the western buyer would store 20,000 barrels 
with this storage. This buyer takes annually from our town for a 
couple months work enough clear money to buy one of the best 
farms in the county. It is reported now that the storage was not 
filled. ]\Iany growers could get no storage, so sold out and when 
they finished drawing could have secured from 50 cents to 75 cents 
per barrel more for their apples than they sold for earlier. This 
was a clear loss and could have been saved if there had been storage 
room. 

My storage bill this year is over $2,000 besides the extra cost of 
drawing apples to the storage and the loss of time waiting to unload 
when at the storage. During the busy time, an hour or more of 
waiting to unload is quite a frequent occurrence. Then again the 
loss on a crop stored in the ordinary storages from the practice of 
the storage men in always expecting to handle all the apples stored 
with them. Besides the legitimate 40 cents storage charge, they 
always want to make a profit as big as possible and some years 
doubling their money. One time the storage men by accident froze 
the top three tiers of barrels over my entire block of apples. The 
damage was not discovered until I took an out-of-town dealer to 
look at the apples. The storage man said, "W^ll, I knew your 
apples were very badly covered with fungus, so I put the tempera- 
ture down to keep the fungus from spreading." He stopped it. 
He bought the apples and when he took them out, said they were the 
best apples in the storage. 

P'or some time, I have had an idea of a farmers' storage, but 
at the present time all the farmers, who were interested and ready 
to go in, have been bought off with promises or scared out by a mis- 
representation of conditions. When I began to look up the storage 
proposition, I thought I knew a lot about storage, but it is like mak- 
ing books, "There is no end." In our section there are two kinds of 
chemical storages used and each advocate is sure his kind of chem- 



85 



ical is the only one to use. The ammonia system most generally 
used has to be pumped at a pressure of 200 to 300 pounds to the 
square inch, and in case of a leak or break in the pipe has been dis- 
astrous to the workmen, and in some instances large damages have 
been obtained against the owners. The next chemical in popularity 
is Carbonic acid gas CO2, but it has the disadvantage of requiring 
a pressure of from 900 to 1300 pounds per square inch. The users 
of each chemical tell of the dangers of the other kind and the benefits 
of their particular plants. AMth each one it requires a double set 
of machinery complete in every way to guard against a breakdown 
and heavy losses ; for the storage company is liable for the loss by 
over cooling or loss from lack of cooling, if you can make out a case, 
but they will always put up the cry of, "poor stuff" and try to prove 
that the reason why the fruit did not keep was entirely owing to 
poor quality. 

The ammonia storage men claim for their system, that if any 
escapes by a leak or break, the odor is detected instantly and the 
defect attended to at once. They also claim a cheaper method than 
gas to start in with and should a gas system break or leak, there is 
no way to discover it as the gas is nearly or quite odorless. 

Carbonic Acid gas users claim there is less danger to workmen 
from the gas than from ammonia, and the gas, what little does es- 
cape acts as a preservative and keeps fruit much better than the 
ammonia system. 

One of the large storages of 80,000 barrels capacity uses Car- 
bonic acid gas. This storage is a stock company and the company 
does nothing but straight storage business, never buying fruit. 
Their stock has averaged net 20 per cent, profits, besides a surplus 
since it was built, for a period of twelve years. One of the houses 
using ammonia have paid big dividends since they started, seven or 
eight years ago, and a retiring partner this year received 200 per 
cent, for his stock. 

The third system of chemical storage for fruit that it adapted 
to the north, is what is known as the "Gravity Brine System." Mr. 
G. Harold Powell, formerly with the U. S. Department of Agricul- 
ture but now with the Citrus Union of California at a salary for 
the first year of $10,000, says where natural ice can be secured 
cheaply, the "Gravity Brine System" is the best and by far the 
cheapest. I\Ir. Powell has spent much time studying and investi- 
gating cold storage problems for the U. S. Department and is one 
of the best informed men on that line in the country. Madison 
Cooper, of Calcium, N. Y., has erected nearly 150 storages of this 
kind in the United States and Canada. Canada is more kind to 
her fruit growers than Uncle Sam, and where storage buildings are 
needed pays 30 per cent, of the cost of new storages. 

The "Gravity Brine System" is a chemical cold storage the 
same as the other two, but uses ice and salt with calcium carbide. 
Usually at the side of a brine storage house, is erected a room for ice 
well insulated, where ice is kept for use in the storage. No saw- 
dust or other covering is used to keep the ice, depending entirely on 
the insullation. AA'hen operating the storage, ice is run through the 
ice breaker to an elevator which carries the broken ice to the tanks 



86 




L_oMGiTUDiwAi_ 3e:ctiom 

LoNGlTUDINAIv SECTION OF A "GrAVITY BriNE SySTEm" CoED STORAGE HoUSE. 

(Courtesy, Madison Cooper Co.) 

in the top of the building where it is mixed with salt. This mix- 
ture goes into the tanks which have pipes filled with calcium carbide 
and water. These pipes go through all the storage rooms thus 
cooling them to the required temperature. There is a complete 
system of ventilation for all the rooms drawing out the bad air, which 
contains carbonic acid gas that is thrown off by the fruit and re- 
placing with fresh air. Pears going into storage hot in the sum- 
mer weather throw oft" more carbonic acid gas than do the apples, 
which are put in in cooler weather, and replacing with fresh air. 
These fans are run on frosty nights in the fall and when cold 
weather comes can be used at any time, thus saving the cost of ice 
in operating and giving fresh air to the fruit. 

Mr. Hartwell, who ran three cold storages at one time but who 
is now managing the 80,000 barrel ammonia plant at Brighton, N. Y., 
came to the conclusion that the old way of storing fruit with no 
ventilation was bad on the fruit, so at a big expense has put in a 
complete line of fans, piping, etc., that will change all the air in 
the rooms in a short time. Carbonic acid gas in any quantity 
through the lungs is a narcotic poison, while taken through the 
stomach does not act as a poison, but is refreshing. Mr. Cooper 
and Mr. Hartwell both claim and seem to be able to prove that 
carbonic acid gas is detrimental to fruit and should be removed. 
This idea has not been absolutely settled, but in visiting the different 
houses, one cannot help but notice better air and freedom from fruit 
and other odors in rooms where fan circulation is used than in 
rooms where the same air is kept through the entire season and 
from year to year. The air is damp and heavy with no life in it. 



87 




Brine Tank and Coils of a "Gravity Brine System" Cold Storage. 

One feels depressed in the room not A-entilated besides the unpleas- 
ant odor from the damp barrels. Some kinds of wood give olt a 
disagreeable odor and when barrels are made from these kinds of 
wood, the odor from them for the entire season is almost sickening. 

The ammonia and carbonic acid gas systems of storage call for 
houses of 40,000 or more barrels capacity to keep the cost of operat- 
ing down to a paying basis. Two complete duplicate systems of 
machinery must be always ready in case one should break down and 
two competent skilled engineers must always be on hand, one for 
day and one for the night shift, and in the Brighton, N. Y., stor- 
age three engineers working on an eight-hour shift at $25.00 each 
per week, and these must be kept the year round for they cannot 
be picked up when wanted. They also employ two firemen. This 
makes the operating of storage plants very expensive where ma- 
chinery is used. The cost, at the present time, of an up-to-date 
storage house is about $2.00 per barrel for the plants requiring dup- 
licate machinery and about $1.50 per barrel for the ''Gravity Brine" 
houses, thus giving the brine operated houses the advantage in 
building as well as in operating. Electric power, where a cheap 
rate can be secured, is the cheapest power, but the new internal 
combustion engine like the Deisel & Busch using crude petroleum is 
worth investigating as petroleum is a very cheap material to pro- 
duce power. The ice and brine plant requires no high priced or 
expensive machinery in duplicate, but with its systems of fan cir- 
culation the outside cold air can be utilized, thus insuring good air 
and saving ice. The size of the plant does not enter into the prob- 
lem as with the two first propositions, but natural ice at a low cgsz 



88 



seems to be the one necessary item. With the brine system, if one 
owns it himself, he can sell his fruit at any time and stop storage 
and insurance charges. If your apples were in some commercial 
storage, the fixed charges for the season must be paid, no matter 
^vhen the fruit is disposed of. 

I haye been working on the storage deal this fall and haye de- 
cided on a io,cx)o barrel grayity brine plant for our own use. Will 
put the apples in barrels, heading them without pressing, putting 
them into storage as soon as picked without sorting. If help is 
scarce, sorting the fruit on rainy days or between kinds, or after 
the crop is entirely picked. If help is plenty will keep a sorting gang 
at the storage drawing all the apples there to sort. Should we leaye 
our apples to sort until picking is done, it would benefit the 
eyaporator man by allowing him to eyaporate the drops before they 
decayed and holding the picked culls to the last. 

We will haye our storage house on our farm between the steam 
and trolley tracks, with siding from both. A\'ill also haye a large 
eyaporator on same siding, thus insuring short hauls for picked and 
dropped apples. 

Storage is absolutely necessary and notwithstanding so much 
rot published for the last few years in city papers about storages 
making liying more expensiye, it tends to equalize the cost of liv- 
ing. Without storage it would either be a feast or a famine, a glut 
in the market and produce of all kinds selling below cost of pro- 
duction and then a market bare of the same things that had been 
wasted for the lack of storage facilities. Cold storage is an infant, 
but a few years old, l^ut he is growing. ]\Ir. Case, of Sodus, one 
of the best growers in the state said that he lost a lot of apples this 
year at the last end, the apples just got ripe and dropped off. If 
he had had a storage to haye drawn his unsorted apples, he could 
haye saved his entire crop, sorting them after the apples were all 
picked. 

Mr. Lewis. \Miat is your plan in regard to temperature? 
Mr, Allis. I never ran a storage, but think a temperature of 
from 30 to 32 would be right, or probably to 35. 

R. M. Eldon. \\t would have no difficulty in getting natural 

ice. 

C. J. Tyson. Do you know the quantity of ice needed? 

Mr. Allis. yir Cooper came to see me last week. He said 
that for a house holding 10,000 barrels, it would require 1,000 tons 
of ice in a year. 

C. J. Tyson. How late would you figure on holding the apples 
with that quantity of ice? 

Mr. Allis. I think that their idea until the following spring, 
until June. ]\Iy idea has been for some time that many apples have 
been nearly ruined in storage. They come out from in the center, 
while apples kept in a cool cellar, about 40 degrees, are kept in bet- 
ter condition than in the cold storage. I think apples will go to the 
consumer in better shape from the excessive cold of the cold 
storage. 

Member. Would apples freeze at 32? 
Mr. Allis. Xo, not in a barrel. 



89 

R. M. Eldon. During January and February would you con- 
template using the natural temperature? 

Mr. Allis. With such weather as this I think apples would keep 
without ice at all. 

E. C. Tyson. It would be necessary for you to think of the 
maxium amount, would it not. as some years you would not use 
any scarcely^ 

Mr. Allis. As I understood 'Mr. Cooper, i.ooo tons was the 
maximum that would ever be required. 

E. C. Tyson. A\'hat does he allow for waste between the times 
of storing the ice and using it next fall ? 

Mr. Allis. If the house is properly constructed and insulated 
there will be very little waste. I think ]\Ir. Hedrick has had quite 
a little experience and can answer some questions that I do not 
know anything about. 

Mr. Hedrick. While I was teaching in the Agricultural Col- 
lege, ^lichigan, I worked for several years in connection with the 
college storage house, holding over 6,000 barrels of apples. I can 
give you any information about running it but cannot give you the 
figures. The system worked satisfactorily. It cost 50 cents per 
ton to put up our ice. ^^'e had no trouble in keeping it, there was 
very little waste. Sometimes the ice w^ould be in the house three, 
four or five years. This small storage plan worked very well in- 
deed. There are, I believe, one or two in the Hudson River dis- 
trict. 

Member. Was the storage room insulated with cork? 

Mr. Hedrick. It was. There were two thicknesses of cork 
and two cavities, or air spaces. The cork was only thin, there was 
no 3-inch cork. 

Member. ]Must ice be taken from the storage room and put 
somewhere else ? 

Mr. Hedrick. Yes it must be taken from the storage room, 
mixed with salt and put in the top. You must understand that you 
have, in the top of your storage, a system by which you make brine 
and crushed ice, and a pipe system running through your room 
which carries brine. 

Member. Is this circulation carried on by gravity? 

Mr. Hedrick. It is carried on by gravity entirely. 

Member. AMiat would be the life of the tanks in regard to 

salt ? 

Mr. Hedrick. We have used this house for several years. 
It is still in use. So far as I know the pipes have never been 
changed. It is calcium chloride in the pipes, I do not know what 
the life of the pipes would be. You might have to renew them. 

Member. As the pipes run through the tank, I should think 
that salt would corrode them and very likely would be sharp. 

Mr. Allis. I asked Mr. Cooper that same question, and he 
said that the life of the pipes was several years. 

Member. Do you remember the size of those pipes ? 

Mr. Hedrick. About 1V2 inch. They are not expensive pipes. 

E. C. Tyson. Is the question of ice a daily process while in 
operation in hot weather? 



90 

Mr. Hedrick. In hot weather it is a daily job to have a man 
crush the ice and take care of it. At this time of year it is probably 
a weekly job, taking an hour or two to put the ice in. 

Mr. Allis. As I understand it. the elevator runs from the ice 
house to the upper story where the ice is mixed. There is also 
another point I had thought of in this system, that the ice storage 
room would be nearly empty at the time you picked your apples in 
the fall. You can store your apples in that room until you have to fill 
it with ice the next winter. I asked Mr. Cooper about that and he 
said it would work all right. That would give you that extra room. 

E. C. Tyson. Do I understand that the temperature is auto- 
matic ? 

Mr. Hedrick, The temperature is pretty nearly automatic. 
If you are looking after it closely you can make it automatic. It 
varies little more than chemical storage. 

E. C. Tyson. What attention would be required? 

Mr. Hedrick. Putting in more ice and more brine, keeping that 
more regularly supplied in order to have a lower temperature, and 
in opening the ventilators and running the fans. It is always an 
easy matter. And there are also automatic thermometers to help 
you out. 

Member. What runs the fans ? 

Mr. Hedrick. Electricity. In a plant the size of Mr. Allis' it 
would almost be necessary to have a small engine or electric power. 




Starting MeIvOns in Hotbed. 



91 




A Fine York Imperial AppeE Tree. 



BUSINESS METHODS IN MARKETING APPLES. 



W. J. Le^wis, Pittston, Luzerne County, Pa., Commercial Orchard- 
ist and President of the Fruit Growers' Association of Luzerne 
County. 



Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen: We up in Luzerne 
have for sometime recognized the fact that in the Adams County 
association you had one of the strongest societies in the east. One 
that was doing more for itself and its members, and one that had 
been and still is, an important factor in the development of the fruit 
industry in this section. For that reason I have looked forward 
with pleasure to the time when I could meet with you. That 
anticipation of pleasure is now more than fulfilled. I have assur- 
ance also that my being here at this time will be a pleasure to you. 
Lest you might take that feeling for one of conceit I will explain 
why I have it. 

A few weeks ago at our Luzerne County meeting your Mr. C. 
J. Tyson was with us and gave us two very interesting and instruc- 
tive addresses. While there he asked me to come to this meeting 
and address you on the subject which has been assigned to me. I 
tried to be excused with the plea that I had been so busy the last 
15 years trying to learn how to grow and market fruit that I had'nt 
had time to learn how to tell about it in public, but he said '*Oh, they 
are a good natured bunch down in Adams county and will put up 
with most anything." So I have risked your everlasting displeasure 
and will do the best I can. 

When I get up to talk in public I am reminded of a story I 
read a few weeks ago. A young man was to address his first audi- 
ence. After he had been duly introduced he forgot everything he 



92 



had intended to say. His mind was entirely a blank. The only 
thing he could think of at all was a little story he had read in a paper 
a few days before, so he had to give them that. He said, "Friends 
great oratory is almost a thing of the past. The kind of oratory 
that sways men's minds and influences their Avhole life is almost 
gone. Caesar is dead, Abraham Lincoln is dead and I am not feel- 
ing very well myself." 

I am just a little reluctant to bring up this subject in the pres- 
ence of you people who have had considerable experience in the 
growing and marketing of fruit, many of you being much older and 
having had more experience than I have had, but we have all had 
different experiences and these things appeal to us in diff'erent ways. 
For this reason I shall hope to call your attention to a few things 
in marketing as I have seen them, with the hope that it may be of 
some little value to you. While my subject is the marketing of 
fruit, what 1 shall say along this line will apply equally as well to 
any or all other farm crops. 

The advances that have been made along horticultural lines the 
past few years are simply wonderful. \\'e naturally expect any 
new industry just starting up to make marked progress, but in 
horticulture we have one of the oldest industries known, as we 
presume that ever since the apple was in the garden of Eden more 
or less fruit has been produced. And now after these thousands of 
years to start up and make such progress is nothing less than mar- 
velous. The sources from which we may learn how to grow crops 
are many. We have our United States Department of Agriculture, 
our several state departments, our agricultural schools, Farmers' 
Institutes, books, papers and last but not least these associations, 
but unfortunately, while these tell us how to grow crops, they don't 
give us much instruction on the marketing of them. Now, that 
seems to me one of the most important things we have to consider : 
it is the end of the business from which we get the price to buy the 
necessities, comforts or luxuries of life as the case may be. 

Notwithstanding the wonderful progress that we have made 
along the line of crop production, we must admit that other indus- 
tries have better systems of marketing their product than we have. 
And yet I do not recall the first practice followed in marketing other 
products that would not apply equally as well to ours. 

I do not know of any better way that I can call your attention 
to a few things I wish to at this time than by a short study of the 
methods of those engaged in other lines and comparing their ways 
with ours. Just for the purpose of comparison I am going to try 
and call your attention to some of the ways and workings of the 
International Harvester Company. As you all know they are a 
large corporation with many factories turning out many different 
implements, and yet they make but one thing in each factory. This 
might suggest to us the advisability of being a specialist. I think 
the day of the specialist if not already here is coming very fast. 
I\Iany arguments might be brought in support of this, but the one 
having to do with my subject is this : If we are growing but one crop 
we can produce that in sufficient quantity so that our influence is 
felt in any market that we care to enter, and to the extent we can 



93 



make our influence felt, just to that extent can we control prices. 
This fact might dictate to us as to what market we should go. A 
market in proportion to the size of our supply. 

Another point to which I wish to call your attention is the 
matter of cost. We. in order to market intelligently must know 
the exact cost of any product we put upon the market. From what 
I have seen since I have been in your county I believe you have a 
better development along horticultural lines than we have in Lu- 
zerne, yet if I should ask you how many of you knew the exact 
cost of any product you ever put upon the market I doubt if one 
of you could tell me. I hope for your sake that I am wrong about 
this. It is a principle as old as the hills that in order to trade (and 
that is what marketing is ) intelligently you must know the value 
of what you are trading in. This matter of cost may look like a 
big job to you and I will admit that it does require some study and 
thought to work out a system to properly work out the cost of our 
dif¥erent crops, but when you have such system once started it only 
requires a few minutes each day to keep it in shape. Bear in mind 
that the International Harvester Company have their own ore-mines 
and forests from which they take their raw material and their busi- 
ness requires a much more complicated system to know the cost of 
their product and yet they have it because it is absolutely necessary 
that they should. I believe it is very possible for us to make a nice 
little profit on four or five acres of some crop and loose it on a pair 
of pigs or a dozen chickens or visa versa just because we don't 
know the cost. 

Another thing this company does : At some certain time of the 
year they take a complete inventory, so that they can tell to the cent 
whether their operations for the year have been at a profit or loss. 
What would it be worth to us now as fruit growers if we had done 
this every year and should do this again on the first day of next 
January and then set down and figure out just what we had made or 
lost during the year that is past and then take our cost account and 
tell just what crops we grew at a profit and which ones at a loss. 
What a guide to us in our future work. 

Another thing they do very extensively is advertising. It was 
said a year or two ago, in the sale of automobiles for instance, on a 
$2,000 machine, that absolutely $1,000 of that was spent for adver- 
tising and placing the machine on the market. Now I am not say- 
ing that it would pay fruit growers to spend so large an amount 
proportionately as this, but there are many little and cheap ways 
that we can use to call the attention of the public to the value of the 
apple as a food. Just last week in conversation with a western 
apple man he told me that it didn't make any difference where you 
went or for what purpose in Spokane you heard the apple talked 
about. Those western fellows are just filled up with it and we can 
see the result of that kind of advertising in our eastern markets. 
I heard another good authority say that if fruit growers would ad- 
vertise and educate as extensively as the breakfast-food people did 
that there wasn't enough apples grown in the United States to sup- 
ply the population of Pennsylvania. Bear in mind that their pro- 
duct has no value as a food in comparison with ours. 



94 



Another thing it does'nt make any difference whether a mow- 
ing machine is sold at home, in South America, Africa or Australia, 
the identity of the manufacturer and the place of manufacture is 
never lost sight of. The only place that this doesn't count in is 
the junk heap where the price has fallen from about S45.00 to $2.00. 
Friends, there is entirely too much of our product sold as junk. If 
you are turning out a product that you are ashamed of, let it go as 
junk, but if what you have for sale is as good as the average stamp 
your reputation on to it. show the consumer that you are not 
ashamed of it and you will be surprised what a lot of confidence 
you can inspire in him and what a price he will pay for it. 

As illustrating that and another thought in advertising, we sell 
a good many of our apples in our local market, and two years ago 
we thought of putting a shipping tag on each of our baskets. It was 
not addressed, simply put on the basket. The merchant asked what 
we put those on for. and we said Ave wanted the basket back. He 
said he would keep the baskets for us. but some other fellow might 
find out where he was getting the apples and compete with him. I 
told him if I found our baskets sitting out without our tag on them 
we would quit him. That is advertising and identity. 

Another thing that the International Harvester Company does 
when they have a machine ready to go out they never go out to a 
fence corner and pick up some old piece of wood to make a case 
for it. If you wanted to buy that machine and it had an old case on 
it you would think it was an old machine. They use a nice, new, 
bright case. It pays them to do it. 

I do not know how you people here market your fruit alto- 
gether, but in our county I have seen apples as good as the average 
of these exhibited going to market in boxes that hens had roosted in, 
in old weather-beaten boxes, and I have seen them in a dog-coop. I 
do not believe you do any of these things or I would not dare say 
so much. But to get back to the marketing end of it. we must put 
up our fruit in a package that is going to add to, rather than detract 
from its appearance. 

Another thing that they do, they rake this country over with a 
fine-tooth com]^, as it were, to get the very best man thev can for 
a salesman. \Miat constitutes a good salesman? In the first place, 
he should be good-looking : any of us can fill that bill. He ought to 
be reasonably well dressed ; any of us can fill that. He must be 
a man of fairly e^-en temperament. It does not make any dift'erence 
what appears, he must not get angry. In other words, he must 
always be able to turn the bright side of the deal out for the in- 
spection of the public. 

For illustration I want to tell you of an incident. A farmer 
went into a grocerv store to sell potatoes. He wanted 80 cents a 
bushel for them. The grocery-man came out and shook hands with 
him and asked him how things were going out on the farm, and 
whether he had pretty good crops, and by that time they had reached 
the office. 

The farmer sat down and poured a tale of woe into that man's 
ear that would have made even Job turn green with envy. The 
groceryman had troubles enough of his own. The groceryman dis- 



95 



pised him because he saw that that man dispised his business. He 
did not care to do business with him. He said ''I will give you 70 
cents for your potatoes." The man would not take it. 

The next day another man came in and shook hands with the 
grocervman, and by that time the groceryman had somewhat re- 
covered from the host of the day before, and he asked him the same 
questions and treated him the same way. They had not been in the 
office fifteen minutes before the groceryman was ready to turn his 
business over to that farmer. This farmer had been prosperous the 
whole year. The fact was that the first man had been the most 
prosperous of the two but he did not know how to advertise. He 
sold all the potatoes for 85 cents. Xever let the other fellow see 
how dark your side is ; keep good natured and you can sell. 

A salesman must have confidence in himself and faith in his 
product. That implies a whole lot. In the first place, to have con- 
fidence in himself he can make his way anywhere and go anywhere. 
If he thinks he is going to make a sale and get a good price,, he is 
going to do it. 

Xow in conclusion, there are quite a good many little tricks in 
marketing that I might call your attention to. I mean there are 
little ways of keeping your customers good natured. I do not mean 
dishonestly. To sum up what I have said, we ought to get more 
actual business into our marketing. \\'e have got the best business 
on earth. It is worth a good deal more consideration and atten- 
tion than we give it. In proof of the fact that we have the best 
business on earth, I would challenge any one of you to name any 
other business that you are acquainted with that would stand the 
lack of attention that we give ours, and see if you can think of any 
business that would stand the methods we use. It may be that you 
people down here are very much more advanced along these lines 
than we are. 

There has been quite a considerable controversy the last year 
or two in regard to the per cent, of the consumer's dollar that the 
fruit grower gets, and the "Pairal Xew Yorker" has it figured down 
that we get only 35 cents, or less, of the consumer's dollar. I won- 
der how it would work if we would say that the consumer is paying 
S3. 00 for one dollar's worth of goods. If the consumer was not 
responsible, it would be up to the growers to make the change. We 
have got a whole lot the best end of the string, it seems to me. I 
do feel sorry for the large bulk of consumers. If the conditions 
are as we see them, the next move is up to them, and any move 
that is made to remedy that condition must come from the con- 
sumer. That is about all I have to say on this subject, and I thank 
you. 

R. M. Eldon. Are you interested in storage? 

Mr. Lewis. We are only interested in storage, at the present 
time, in the natural storage. We have a little storage building of 
our own, and I am not just prepared to say that that storage would 
work out on an extensive scale, but by choosing varieties, we keep 
apples in that storage that we sell all through the fall and winter 
season, and keep them up to the middle of May and June, with 
very little loss. Moreover, we have customers who say they will 



96 



absolutely not buy cold storage apples. Whether the flavor goes 
out of cold storage apples, I do not know, but they think the apples 
are not good after being in cold storage. 

R. M. Eldon. Do you ship on the cars, or how do you get 
them to market? 

Mr. Lewis. Practically all the apples we grow we grade and 
the better grade we box, just as you have these boxed here, and 
those we ship all over the world, and what we call seconds, are fairly 
good apples, which we sell in local markets, hauling them in bushel 
baskets, by wagon. 

Member. Do vou store in bulk? 

Mr. Levels, Yes sir ; we store in bulk. There are just a few 
little things that I might call your attention to. AVe have our regu- 
lar customers that we supply. We have six in Wilkes-Barre. four 
in the city of Pittston, and four in Scranton. Anyone outside of 
those few we would not sell a bushel at any price. 

People get anxious for anything they can't get. After we have 
marketed to them a little while, a fellow once in a while will get a 
little independent and when that fellow tells us his request for that 
day or the next day, it may be lo bushels. A\'hen we go there the 
next day we only give him six bushels. If we just try to give him 
one extra one he would fade away, but if we cut him short he gets 
anxious right away. 

Mr. Houck. You speak of having your own storage. Can 
you keep your apples without using ice? I think that would take 
the flavor. How do you preserve your apples to keep them? 

Mr. Lewis. We have a storage built of concrete i6 feet wide 
and 80 feet long and 10 feet high. We went into a bank four feet 
so when the thing was completed we had taken out just enough 
dirt to cover the top. It can be arched over with concrete or stone 
or whichever is the cheaper. AA'e ventilate it from the top. In 
picking, we take our apples just as they are picked. Not over 15 
or 20 minutes from the time they are taken from the trees we have 
them in the storage. The important point in storage is to get them 
promptly in storage. At picking time we have occasionally a cold 
day and a cold night, and any day it is colder outside than inside 
we open ventilators and then close them again. AVe have it well 
enough insulated that we can hold it at whatever point we have 
it. 

Mr. Houck. AVould it be an advantage to have a mode of forc- 
ing cold air underneath and letting the other pair pass out at the 
top? 

Mr. Lewis. If you hold a match up to the chimney you can tell 
which way the current is. 

Member. How many apples will a cave that size hold? 

Mr. Lewis. AA^e have this in bins. AA^e grow quite a number 
of varieties. AA'e pile them 8 feet in bulk. AA'e put in the side bins, 
the kinds we know we are going to keep the longest. By being very 
economical in space it will hold 7, 500 bushels. 

C. J. Tyson. AA^hat do you think of the attitude of the con- 
sumer to help himself out by taking fruit direct from the grower? 
Are they inclined to do it? 



97 

Mr. Lewis. The class of people that are doing that are the 
wealthy clas^. but the people that I fear are almost at the starving 
point cio not seem to consider that at all. They do not seem to 
care about it. 

W. S. Adams. AMiat are your leading varieties? 

Mr. Lewis. That is a hard question to answer. W'c have 
77 varieties in bearing and there are only a few of those that are not 
profitable. If I were to set another orchard I would not set more 
than nine. 

E. C. Tyson. If you Avere growing apples with a view of mar- 
keting in carloads you would not want so many varieties. Xot over 
nine. 

Mr. Lewis. Some people advise two or three. 

Member. Have you selected a list of nine that you consider 
best for your locality? 

Mr. Lewis. Yes. nine or ten. I could give you that list for 
our location, but you know something about our latitude and our 
soil is a silty loam. It is a little different soil from anything they 
have ever found in this state. Our altitude is 750 feet. If you 
will bear those conditions in mind I will give you the list. If we 
want to start in early we take the Yellow Transparent, then the 
Red Astrachan for the first general purpose apple. Xow, I do not 
know Avhat }'our conditions are here as to local markets. I do not 
know if it is advisable to grow summer apples in carload lots. You 
come nearer getting a supply of good eating apples in the winter 
than in the summer. It seems to me that the summer apple is the 
profitable apple if it is taken right oft* the tree and sold without any 
handling and without storage. 

Gravenstein, AA'ealthy, Duchess, 

]\IcIntosh, Smokehouse, AA'agner. 

Baldwin, Stark, 

They are all good bearers, have good color and all the quality 
that we can ask of an apple in our section. 

W. W. Boyer. The best grade you talk of shipping all over 
the world, in what package do you ship them, and hoAV do vou 
find the market ? 

Mr. Lewis. \\q ship them in barrels and boxes, wrapped. 
AA'e find the markets partly through, fruit shows, advertising in that 
way. If you were able to go into the remotest corner of the United 
States and do something just a little bit better than anybody else has 
ever done it. you could not hide it, the people would ,2:et there to find 
out about it. If you will box apples that are just a little better than 
the average in the city markets, it is just a Question of finding here 
and there a customer. One customer will tell another, that one will 
tell another, and in that way you will get your market. 

Member. Do you ship direct to the customer? AVe ship di- 
rect to the consumer. 

Member. Do you know what your storage cost vou? 



98 



Mr. Lewis. $1200. We built the storage at picking time, and 
every two or three weeks an out-of-town commission man came 
to buy our crop. One came in one day when we were picking and 
asked if we were ready to selL We told him we were always ready. 
He said, ''I bought a whole lot around this country for 65 cents but 
these are just a little better, and if you will keep still I will give 
you 80 cents." I told him to go with me to where we had a few 
piled up and show^ me how many he was going to pick out. When 
he got there his eyes were quite a little bigger than when he was in 
the orchard. He said, ''I will give you $1.25, but I see that you are 
not ready to sell." I said "No,' we are not ready to sell." We did 
a little better than that. We had 4,000 bushels. 

A good little storage would be a good thing for you, just to 
hold as a club over the buyers. 





The Stayman Grows Large When Wei.1. Cared For. 



99 




Williams' Early Red. 
A very satisfactory Red Apple for early summer. 



THE EASTERN FRUIT GROWERS' ASSOCIATION, ITS 
PLANS AND PROSPECTS. 



Mr. X. T. Frame, Secretary, Martiiisbiirg, W. Va. 



Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen : Down in Berkeley 
County, West A'irginia, Ave are accustomed ordinarily to say that 
there are two leading County Horticultural Societies in this part 
of the country ; first the Berkeley County Horticultural Society and 
second the Adams County Horticultural Society. I shall go home 
from here and tell my people that we must immediately call a special 
metting and start a fund to put up a building. I see that we are 
second to you in A^dams County which we cannot afford to be. W e 
are going to have a building. 

Personally, I have for a long time wanted to get to Adams 
county. Xow that I am here I assure you that I am very much 
gratified to see the audience that is here to discuss the subject of 
marketing. If there were no other impression or information that 
I could carry away from this meeting I should feel that I had been 
well repaid for coming over here simply to hear ]\Ir. Lewis' practical 
talk on marketing problems. He told us a whole lot of things that 
will do us all good, and I particularly agree with him that in com- 
mercial fruit growing even in Adams County and Berkeley County, 



100 



we ought to have ripe, well developed apples to put on the market in 
the fall, whereas, at the present time, we are then putting on the 
markets cull apples that are not fit to eat. When you or I pick up 
a basket of grapes from a fruit stand and take them home they 
look fairly good, but when we taste of them fmd them green, we do 
not buy any more grapes for some time. Now, the man or woman 
in New York, or vSavannah or New Orleans who attempts eating 
York Imperial apples in the fall, does not buy any more apples until 
he or she is forced to do it. Avant to have a ripe apple on the 

market in the fall season even if we sell that apple at cost. We 
shall be educating the people to use our later apples when they do 
become ripe. 

But this has nothing definite to do with the Eastern Fruit 
Growers' Association. Two years ago a number of fruit growers 
from our section went to Washington and appeared before the Com- 
mittee of Agriculture to further the passage by Congress of a bill 
giving the Secretary of Agriculture authority to quarantine against 
infested nursery seedlings. There seemed to be inadequate methods 
of detecting: the imported brown-tail moths. We felt, in our sec- 
tion, that if a nest of brown-tail moth should get scattered we could 
not afford to spray against it. 

W^hen, however, we reached A\^ashington, we found only a 
handful of fruit growers from two or three sections. We put up 
an argument before the Agricultural Committee which was admitted- 
ly strong, but we could claim before that Committee to represent 
only a handful from the fruit growing industry. We learned that 
a number of your people. I think several of you gentlemen from 
Adams county, had been down to A\'ashington furthering the pass- 
age of the so-called LaFean Bill, standardizing packages. We were 
in favor of the LaFean bill, ^^our people went down to push the 
LaFean bill, we to Dush the Simmon 1:)ill. If we had all been 
there backing both bills, we might have got favorable reports. It, 
therefore, seemed advisable that some form of interstate organiza- 
tion be eff'ected, and last year at the Hotel Raleigh, Washington, the 
Eastern Fruit Growers' Association was organized. ^lany of vou 
have copies of the constitution with the minutes of that meeting last 
year. In concise terms, the idea of the Eastern Fruit Growers' As- 
sociation is that the organization is a legitimate lobby in the interest 
of fruit growing in A'irginia. West A'irginia. ^Maryland, Pennsvl- 
vania, Delaware and District of Columbia, and to further legislation 
which wnll help our fruit growers. 

If anv matters come up before the Agricultural Committee, the 
officers of the Eastern Fruit Growers' Association are expected to 
be advised of that fact and arrano-e for hearings at which all the 
fruit growers can be represented. There are certain interstate 
problems which aff'ect this whole territorv that neither your state 
societv nor the Alarvland state society, nor the A'irginia state society, 
can alone successfully solve. 

The second annual meeting has just been held this week in 
AYashington, and in this connection I would like to beg the pardon 
of the Adams county society. AYhen we arranged for the AYashing- 
ton meeting I told Mr. Lupton I thought there would be no con- 



lOI 



flicting dates this week. It was unfortunate that we should have 
picked out a date that made it impossible for any of your people 
to be in attendance. 

At the meeting at Hotel Raleigh on Tuesday and Wednesday 
of this w^eek, the matters discussed were as follows : It was decided 
that in the following line of work laid down we might more profit- 
ably confine the membership to the five states, Virginia, West Vir- 
ginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Delav/are, taking in, of course, 
any people from the District of Columbia. We did not feel that we 
necessarily would be antagonistic to New York or to Georgia and 
states farther south, although matters might come up where there 
would be a conflict of interest ; but we felt that we could accomplish 
more by limiting the membership to these states. You will notice 
by the constitution, that the Eastern Fruit Growers' Association is 
open to membership to commercial fruit growers or men and women 
engaged in scientific research work relating thereto in the five states 
mentioned. The membership fee is $i.oo; for societies, $5.00. It 
is to be hoped that Adams county will join as a society and a num- 
ber of you as individuals. 

What shall the standard package law be? You people are 
backing a proposed LaFean pjill standardizing a 28^^ inch barrel 
stave. We were fighting for just such a barrel. In Virginia the 
state law makes standard a barrel one inch shorter with a 273^ inch 
stave. If any effective legislation on standard packages is to be 
passed by Congress, the fruit growers who are vitally affected must 
go before Congress united and demand the same standard. If you 
people from Pennsylvania, and we from West Virginia and Mary- 
land go down before the Agricultural Committee in favor of a 28}^ 
inch barrel, but the strong Virginia Society send a big delegation 
up there claiming that such a standard is unjust, and there should 
be a 27^^ inch barrel, it is very likely that the bill will never come 
out of the Committee, which fact proves the necessity of an organi- 
zation like the Eastern Fruit Growers' Association. The result of 
the discussion was that a committee of five, one from each of the 
five states, was appointed. This committee is expected to canvass 
the sentiment of their various states. I hope we can persuade the 
Virginia people that they are wrong. If we do persuade them then 
the fruit growers will go before congress united in effecting legis- 
lation along that line. 

I have here a table of rates on which Hagerstown is taken as a 
basis for this section. On the shipments going to points like New 
Orleans or Jacksonville, the freight rates from all stations are just 
the same as the Hagerstown rates. Now the point is this : The price 
of apples through this whole York Imperial belt depends largely 
upon the lowest price in any one section. If the dealer can buy 
York Imperial apples in Winchester or Martinsburg for $2.50 he 
will not come here and buy yours at $2.75. This York Imperial 
belt is well defined, and my experience is that the lowest market 
price, packing and other things considered, governs the territory. 
The rate from Rochester to Memphis is thirty-five cents per hun- 
dred, and from Hagerstown to Memphis, thirty-five cents per hun- 
dred. Your York Imperial may not go so exclusively to the south- 



102 



ern markets as ours do. A great many of your apples, nevertheless, 
go south. A buyer comes in here with the idea of buying 20,00C) 
barrels of apples. He finds, however, upon investigation that he 
can buy 20,000 barrels of New York apples and get them into south- 
ern markets as cheap as or cheaper than he can get ours in. Now 
as a matter of justice, we believe we are entitled to a differential as 
we are several hundred miles nearer to this market. At this meeting 
in Washington on Wednesday, the members pledged a fund of 
$2,000.00 to hire an attorney to bring this matter before the Inter- 
state Commerce Commission. We feel that you people will be will- 
ing to co-operate and bear your share of the burden. 

Prof. Symons of the ^Maryland Agricultural College, read a 
report on Simmons Bill, which will have to be reintroduced this 
season giving the right to quarantine against infested nursery seed- 
lings. 

Prof. Waite together w4th Dr. Haywood and Prof. Ouain- 
tance, all of whom are members of the Insecticide Board explained 
something of the workings of that Board and the present law re- 
garding spray materials. The law is broad enough so that any in- 
secticide and fungicide which bears evidence of having been adul- 
terated can be confiscated and the manufacturer prosecuted. But 
the evidence must be collected by the regular agent of the depart- 
ment. If any of you gentlemen suspicion that you have adulterated 
spray materials write to the Department at Washington telling why 
you think they are adulterated, and give the name of the brand and 
name of the manufacturer, which will give the Department a sug- 
gestion, and maybe one of their inspectors will pick up samples of 
that particular brand in some other sections and if they are found 
to be adulterated the Department will have evidence on which to 
prosecute. 

The Eastern Fruit Growers' A.ssociation felt that apple crop re- 
ports should be in terms of barrels rather than in percentages. No 
one seemed to know what would be a 100 per cent. crop. It is an 
abstract proposition. Our growers on the other hand are accus- 
tomed to estimate in terms of barrels when they place their order 
for empty barrels with their coopers. W^e think in terms of bar- 
rels and we sell on the basis of barrels The Eastern Fruit Growers' 
Association, therefore, resolved unanimously to request the Depart- 
ment of Agriculture to work out a more satisfactory method of 
fruit crop reporting. A suggestion was made that just as the de- 
partment at one time detailed Prof. Scott to work out the problem 
of spraying peaches with self boiled lime-sulphur and then send 
him to fruit growers meetings over the country to teach the growlers 
the result of his experiences so now we would like to have a man 
detailed from the Bureau of Statistics to study with the owners and 
shippers and market men the subject of apple crop reporting and to 
formulate definite blanks and methods. If this specialist could then 
be sent to the horticultural society meetings so as to educate the 
growers in attendance upon a uniform method of reporting from 
all the diff'erent sections there would be in the course of a few years 
many thousands of trained crop reporters using the same standard. 
This we believe would be a great benefit to the growers. 



103 



The Eastern Fruit Growers' Association elected the follow- 
ing officers : As President, Mr. S. L. Lupton, Winchester, Va. ; as 
Vice-President from West Virginia, Mr. C. W. Thatcher, Martins- 
burg; Vice-President from Maryland, Mr. E. P. Cohill, Hancock; 
Vice-President from Virginia, Dr. S. S. Guerrant, Callaway; Vice- 
President from Pennsylvania, Mr. D. N. Minnick, Chambersburg ; 
Vice-President from Delaware, Mr. G. L. Soper, Magnolia; as 
Treasurer Mr. E. I. Oswald, Chewsville, Md. ; as Secretary, Mr. 
N. T. Frame, Martinsburg, W. Va. ; as members of the Executive 
Committee the five state vice-presidents as named above. 

I again extend to the Adams County Society the invitation from 
the Eastern Fruit Growers' Association to become an affiliated mem- 
ber; and to all of you as individuals the invitation to become mem- 
bers. 

I want to read here a paper on marketing the York Imperial 
apple. This paper was endorsed by the meeting on Wednesday. I 
was requested to bring this paper before the five state meetings. 
This paper is entitled "Styles in Fruit" and is relative to some mar- 
ket problems. 

Styles in Fruit. 

In a recent issue of "Farm and Fireside" edited by our fellow 
orchardist, Mr. Herbert Quick, of Morgan County, West Virginia, 
appeared column after column of advertising matter addressed to the 
farmers and the farmers' wives to convince them of the necessity of 
dressing in an up-to-date style, filling their homes and barns with 
up-to-date equipment and going to town in an up-to-date auto- 
mobile. 

Mr. Quick's paper, as I understand, carries twice each month 
to some half million homes this appeal to country people to send 
their money to the cities — to the so-called trade and manufacturing 
centers. Yet large as is the amount of such advertising carried by 
"Farm and Fireside" it is but a drop in the bucket compared to the 
whole volume of carefully prepared advertising matter going into 
the homes of the producers in this country with the purpose and 
intention of educating them up to the point of being up-to-date, of 
keeping in style. 

This oft repeated and long continued appeal has produced a 
marked eft'ect in the industrial life of this country. Countless cities 
profiting in the hundreds of channels of trade opened up by the ad- 
vertising campaigns of the last twenty-five years have doubled and 
tripled in population; while the country districts offering only a 
passive resistance to their exploitation by the cities have in very 
many cases gone backward. 

The cities with the aid of their advertising compaigns have been 
«;ending into country homes their patented luxuries and trade-mark 
necessities at fancy prices ; while the country districts have blindly 
competed with each other in the open market to dispose of their 
foods, wools and cottons in bulk quantities with no thought to pro- 
vide "styles" in raw materials and eatables so as to bring back from 
the cities at fancy prices some of the money sent there for the 
stylish but high-priced city products which the country people have 



104 



l^seen persuaded to believe form a necessary part of their every-day 
living. 

As any man knows. Avho feels it necessary to buy a new derby 
hat this year, because his old one. perfetly good yet. is this year 
out of style, the stvles in men's hats are controlled not l)y the con- 
sumers, bttt by the hat trade, fronn manufacturer to retailer, whose 
businesses would all be much restricted if the wearers were allowed 
to use their old hats until worn sufficiently to demand neAv ones. 

Ever}' Avonian who studies this year's fashion-plates and finds 
that she an hardly re-trim her old hat because of change in shapes, 
realizes that not she but the milliners control the styles in hats. 
They may like to make it appear that a demand for the change 
comes from the ultimate consumer but as yet 99 per cent, of the 
ultimate consumers do not know what the change Avill be until they 
see the "Ladies" Home Journal" or the '■\\'oman's Home Compan- 
ion" such a pretext is nonsense. The millinery trade controls the 
wires that re-create the fashions. 

And so it is all down the line of city-made goods. If the coun- 
try communties are to ttirn the trade l:)alances back to a position 
favorable to them they mtist fight the advertisers with their own 
fire. A few cotmtry districts haAX already learned this. Hood 
River apples for instance sells at 25 cents apiece, not because of 
their superior quality btit because of the organized advertising that 
has edticated a certain class of consttmers to demand such apples at 
any price. Such advertising has been supplemented with proper 
growing and packing and all the other details of successful market- 
ing but exactly the same fruit without the advertising would ne^'er 
have made land worth se\'eral thousand dollars an acre in Hood 
River. Hood RiA"er has turned the trade balances in its favor be- 
cause it has made it stylish to eat Hood River apples. 

Why shouldn't the fruit growers of West \drginia. Adrginia, 
^Maryland and Penns}dvania unite on an advertising campaign and 
make it stylish to have Grimes Golden apples at all times in the 
fruit dish and York Imperial apple pie with vdiich to finish every 
meal ? 

The conditions in the apple trade appear to the Avriter very 
favorable for the taking up at this time such a campaign. CTrowers 
are gradually learning that they place themselves in a very weak 
position Avhen they sit around and wait for the cash buyers to 
come to them to get their apples. With the apples ready to pick, 
no storage facilities provided and no means of getting in touch with 
consuming markets many growers this last year were forced at the 
last minute to take whatever they could get irrespective of what the 
market warranted. 

Others growers, and wiser ones in my judgment, turned over 
to expert selling agencies the inspection and marketing of their 
crops on five year contracts. Such a contract enal^les them to 
concentrate their energy upon the sticcessful production of their 
apples knowing that they will get for them the best that the market 
aft'ords, and at the same time enables the commission man to begin 
a year ahead to help create the market for next year's crop know- 
ing that he, and not someone else, will have that crop to handle. 



^05 

The further deA'elopment of this idea until the bulk of the 
apples of these four states would be put into the markets through 
well established and strong selling agencies would produce the ma- 
chinery through which I believe we could control very largely the 
styles in apples as the hat trade does in men's derbies. 

From correspondence and conversation with growers and com- 
mission men I am convinced that a considerable number of both 
would be mutually glad to enter into long term contracts if the 
matter were presented to them in such a way and under such 
auspices as to have their confidence. I suggest, therefore, that at 
the meetings held this winter of the state horticultural societies of 
West Alrginia, A^irginia. ^Maryland and Pennsylvania that commit- 
tees already existing or new committer if necessary be instructed 
to confer with similar committees of the other three state societies 
to adopt a recommended form of selling contract between growers 
and selling agencies, to provide for securing funds for advertising 
appropriation and advertising agency to be recognized as an official 
agency of the four state societies to carry out such an advertising 
plan. 

As details for consideration by these committees I suggest': 
First that the form of contract recommended be for not less than 
five years duration ; that it provide for high standards of pack and 
thorough supervision ; that it require of the selling agency strict 
accountability but that it give him very free hand in meeting the 
market conditions and that it provide that 2 per cent, of the gross 
sales under such contract, one per cent, to come out of the grower 
and one per cent out of the selling agency, be turned over to the 
officially designated advertising agency to finance an advertising 
campaign to make our apples stylish in the city markets. 

To the advertising agency that may l)e selected this suggestion 
is oflrered : Already the A'ork Imperial apple is favorably known 
in many southern markets, where the house-wives have learned to 
call for the big red lop-sided apple. This style in apple should be 
encouraged. If all of the house-wives can be persuaded to do the 
same thing and taught also to send back other apples if the corner 
grocer is so unwise as to send a substitute around to her, the re- 
tailers and the wholesalers will eventually be forced to stock with 
York Imperial apples. To get the same they must come to some 
orchard in our section of the country beginning with Adams county, 
Pa., in the North and ending practically with Augusta County, A'ir- 
ginia, in the South, and only a few miles wide. Outside of this 
limited area there may be some York Imperials grown but not many. 
In other words there is this unique situation in a restricted area 
producing for some }-ears a commercial crop of York Imperial 
apples cannot exceed a few hundred thousand barrels this must all 
come from comparatively small territory in the Shenandoah, Cum- 
berland and Potomac valleys. This apple is already favorably 
known in certain markets so located geographically as to 1)e most 
available from this section. It is an apple of such peculiar shape 
that any house-wife, however ignorant previously she ma}' have been 
of apples, can be easily taught to identifv it. 

Prosperous cities have grown up around manufacturing plants 



io6 

producing patented articles with which other plants could not com- 
pete but almost without exception one of the most important de- 
partments of such a plant putting out a specialty has been its adver- 
tising department. 

Why shouldn't w^e in this section so organize and so advertise 
that we can dictate the styles in apples in certain markets particular- 
ly with reference to the York Imperial. Every apple of this va- 
riety bears its own trade-mark, which we alone are producing in 
commercial quantities. 

If the West Virginia, Virgina, Maryland and Pennsylvania 
state societies will appoint committees, who can get together and 
organize so as to devise and work a plan along this line which should 
be possible for this section to get back in extra profits from our 
apples some of the hard-earned money that we have sent to the cities 
for stylish and high-priced but not yet needed derbies, hats, etc. 



I07 

FPF PFPFPFPFPF 

FFFFFFFFFFFFF 

PFP FPFPFPFPFP 
FFFFF FFFFFF 

FPFP P PFPFPF 

FFFFF FFFFFF 

PFP FPFPFPFPFP 
FFFFFFFFFFFFF 

FPF PFPFPFPFPF 
FFFFFFFFFFFFF 

PFP FPFPFPFPFP 

Fig. I. 



P 

F 

F 

' P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 



P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 



P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 



P 

F F 
F 

P P 



P 



P P 

F 

F F 
P 

F F 
F 

P P 

F 

F F 
P 

Fig. 2. 



P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 



P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 



P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 

F 

F 

P 



Two AIethods of Hexagonal Planting With Fitters. 

"P" represents Permanent Trees and "F" shows location of fillers. 
Fillers are omitted in center of each illustration to show more clearly appear- 
ance of orchard after fillers are removed. It will be noticed in Fig. 2 that 
each filler occupies the exact center of an equilateral triangle formed by the 
permanent trees. Fig. i is probably best where small growing sorts are 
planted as fillers among larger growing varieties. Fig, 2 is better when 
planting only one variety, which must be thinned when approaching maturity. 



io8 



bigLerville 
national bank 

BIGLERVILLE, PA. 



Capital - - - $50,000.00 
Surplus and Undivided Profits 25,000.00 



Pays 3}4% on Time Deposits 
Your Account Solicited 



^ We call the attention of fruit buyers to the advantages 
of Biglerville as a shipping point, and especially to the 
facilities offered by this bank for making collections on 
shipments of fruit to any point in the United States. 



C. L. LONGSDORF, Pres. R. H. LUPP, V. Pres. 
E. D. HEIGES, Cashier 



109 



REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON FRUIT EXHIBIT. 



Dr. I. H. ]\Iaykr, A[r. Clark Allis, Mr. Aaron Newcomer. 



Your Committee on Fruit beg leave to offer the following" re- 
port : The exhibit consists of about 270 plates and 15 boxes of 
apples, one plate of pears, one plate of sweet potatoes and two 
plates of corn. Twenty-five exhibitors contributed and your Com- 
mittee desires to compliment each and everyone upon the high qual- 
ity of the exhibits, as follows : 



Rufus Lawver, 8 plates— 



2 plates Stayman. 
2 plates Winesap. 
I plate Stark. 



2 plates Sutton. 
I plate for name. 



John N. Peters, 

8 plates York Imperial. 

C. A. Wolfe, 

9 plates York Imperial. 



H. E. Wolfe, 

I plate York Imperial. 
I plate Willow Twig. 



3 plates — - 
I plate ^Mammoth Black Twig. 



W. S. 

I plate Pound. 

I plate Sutton. 

3 plates Rome Beauty. 

I plate Winter Rambo. 



Adams, 12 plates — ■ 

2 plates Peck's Pleasant. 

3 plates Jonathan. 

I plate Smokehouse. 



E. P. Garrettson, 56 plates — 



plates Paradise. 

plates York Stripe. 

plates Red Doctor. 

plates Smokehouse. 

plates Baltzley. 

plates York County Cheese. 

plate Sweet Potatoes. 



4 plates Smith Cider. 

5 plates Cole. 

7 plates Stayman 
2 plates Grimes. 

2 plates Summer Raml)o. 

8 plates York Imperial. 



plates Smokehouse. 



Z. J„ Peters, 3 plates- 



plate York Imperial, 
crop kept in cellar. 



1910 



John H. Miller, 

2 plates for name. 



I in 



IHE "REITER" 

BOLSTER SPRING 




See That Hanger ^ 

The best bolster spring made. Complete and ready for use as sold. War- 
ranted and guaranteed in every way. These springs are just what FARMERS, 

GARDNERS, FRUIT GROWERS, PEDDLERS, DAIRYMEN and TEAM- 
STERS want, as they will make their rough wagons ride as easy as any Spring 
Wagon, thus saving them the cost of Spring Wagons and enabling them 
to deliver their Fruits, Vegetables, Eggs, etc., unbruised and unbroken from 
hauling and in as good condition as when they left home. 

With taese Springs on, wagons 
w ill pull esier and last longer, har- 
ness wear longer and horses work 
easier. 

These Springs don't work on top 
of the Bolster, like other Bolster 
Springs, but on each side in shackles, 
on the same principle as any high 
priced Spring Wagon. These Springs 
can't be broken by overloading or 
rebounding like a Spring Wagon. 
By overloading, the springs will 
work down on each side of the Bolster and the wagon will become rough 
again. In fast driving over rough roads the springs, not being attached to the 
bed or bolster, can't be broken by rebounding or lifting up of the bed. 

No one using a rough wagon should be without The Reiter Bolster Spring, 
as they will save the cost the first year. Remember they are warranted and 
guaranteed in every way. Made to carry from 1,000 to 10,000 pounds. 
Measure your wagon between standards and order a set ; give them a fair 
trial and let your neighbors, friends and the dealer you got them from know 
what you think of them. 

W. C. REITER, Sole Maker 



WITH 

ThcRcitcrBolstcrSpring 

ON THE 

American Farm Wagon 

you can haul or carry any and 
everything equal to any spring 
wagon and at one-half the cost. 



Prices on Application. 



WAYNESBORO, PA. 



Ill 

Robert Eldon, 15 plates — 

2 plates Baldwin. 4 plates Ben Davis. 

I plate Fallowater, 2 plates Rome Beauty. 

I plate Grimes. 3 plates Jonathan. 

3 plates Stayman. 

C. A. Griest, 2 plates — 

1 plate Smith Cider. i plate Alann. 

C. S. Griest's Sons, 7 plates — 

2 plates Ben Davis. 5 plates York Imperial. 

B. F. Wilson, 40 plates — 
13 plates York Imperial. 3 plates Paradise. 

5 plates Smokehouse. 11 plates Jonathan. 

3 plates Smith Cider. 4 plates York Stripe. 

1 plate Mann. 

H. C. Pitzer, 15 plates— 

3 plates Paradise. 2 plates Smith Cider. 

8 plates York Imperial. 2 plates Grimes. 

Robert Garrettson, u plates — 

3 plates Ben Davis. i plate King. 

2 plates Stark. 4 plates York Imperial. 

1 plate Belleflower. 

J. V. Garrettson, 20 plates — 

4 plates Paragon. 5 plates York Imperial. 

2 plates Baldwin. i plate York County Cheese. 

1 plate Hubbardson. i plate Coal. 

2 plates Stark. 2 plates Lehigh. 
2 plates Strinetown Pippin. 

C. E. Raffensperger, 12 plates — 
4 plates York Imperial. i plate Hubbardston. 

1 plate Domine. i plate Grimes Golden. 

2 plates York Stripe. 3 plates Red Doctor. 

H. M. Keller, 12 plates — 

2 plates Lady Blush. i plate Stayman. 

8 plates York Imperial. i plate York Stripe. 

C. W. Peters, 9 plates — 
4 plates York Imperial. 2 plates York County Cheese. 

3 plates Winesap. 

M. F. Stoner, 

I plate Griffins Beauty. 

E. H. Snyder & Son, 5 plates — 
2 plates Rome Beauty. 2 plates Nero. 

I plate Ben Davis. 



113 




Bale Lock 
Extension 

Quick and Positive 

Always keep 
rope hand 
close to lad- 
der when ope- 
rating- top sec- 
tion. Pull rope 
to raise the 
traveling- sec- 
tion. To lower 
traveling- sec- 
tion carry the 
hand slig-ht ]y 
to the right 
while Bale is 
in vertical po- 
lock it, carry 
hand to the left, always keep- 
ing- rope hand close to the 
ladder and the Bale will drop 
in position and lock it secure. 



Tripod 
Omega 
5, 6, 7, 8, 
10, 12,13 
steps 



Tillcy's Omega Tripod Step Ladder 

"First-class in every respect. Stiff, rigid, 
light and durable. All flat steps to stand on. 
The two lower steps are supported by, and 
rest on rounds which tie, support and thor- 
oughly brace the main ladder. Fully cov- 
ered by patents dated December 26, 1910." 

"Beware of false statements from unscru- 
pulous competitors who are trying to force 
the sale of their inferior goods by intimida- 
tion. The Patentee and Manufac- 
turer is responsible, reliable, able 
and willing to protect his patrons 
and himself against bluffers/' 

JOHN S. TILLEY 

Manufacturer of Ladders and Step Ladders of every description 
Factory, WATERVLIET, N. Y. 

Represented in Pennsylvania by 

EDWIN C. TYSON, Flora Dale, Pa. 




113 

Oscar Rise, 6 plates — 

1 plate Jonathan. i plate Winesap. 

2 plates Stayman. 2 plates York Imperial. 

Rice Bros., 3 boxes — 
I box Paragon. i box Griffins Beauty. 

1 box York Imperial. 

Tyson Bros., 9 boxes — 

2 boxes York Imperial. 7 boxes Stayman. 

Jacob Garrettson, 2 plates — 
I plate Hickory King Corn. i plate Leaming Corn. 

The apples are well developed-only a few showing blemishes. 
The boxed apples were well graded, and the fact that all, excepting 
one box, were packed four tier, led your Committee to notice the 
size of many of the plate specimens. AVe hasten to say that size 
is not everything, but size is, we have been told, the one thing lack- 
ing in eastern apples. We determined the circumference of many 
of the specimens exhibited, and wish to place on record the follow- 
ing: 

Summer Rambo, .... 12^ in. 

Cole 13 " 

Stayman Winesap, . . .12 

King, I2>^ 

Rome Beauty, 12 " 

Nero, lojA " 

Stark, 12 " 

Black Twig, 12 

Paradise, 11 " 

Summer Rambo, 13 

And we might continue the investigation as to size with cor- 
responding figures. We know that even figures can be made to lie, 
but the figures given can be verified, and will be found in nearly all 
cases quite conservative. 

Given color and finish, such as these exhibits show, plus size, 
and above all, quality, such apples will command the best market? 
not only in the east, but evervwhere. 

I. H. Mayer, M. D., 
Commercial Horticulturist, Willow Street, Pa. 

Clark Allis, 
Commercial Orchardist, Medina, N. Y. 

Aaron Nkwcomkr, 
Commercial Peach Grower, Smithburg, Md. 



Red Doctor, 




in. 






(( 


York Imperial, 


11^ 


<e 


Jonathan, 




({ 


Baltzlev, 


13M 


i< 


Fallowater, 


12 


(( 


Sutton's Beauty 




(( 


York County Cheese 


' 9 


et 


Griffins Beautv, 


10 





114 




Make New Orchards 
Yield 
Early Fruits 

r^O this by breaking up the hard, 
impervious subsoil. The 
young, tender roots will then have 
access to an abundance of nutri- 
tious plant food stored in this 
larger growing area. 

Start your new orchards in the 
quickest, cheapest and simplest 
way by planting trees with 



2-Yr. Old Apple Tree Set with Du Pont Dynamite 



m PONI 



2-Yr. Old Tree Set with Spade 



Red Cross Low Freezing Dynamite 

The shattered subsoil allows growing space for expanding roots. 
Awakes deeper, broader, richer, moister root-making areas free from 
destructive insects, grubs and fungus growth. Dynamiting conserves 
necessary moisture and makes the soil open to air and rainfall. 

The two pictures represent Bellflower apple trees in orchard of 
Mrs. John Rawley, Grant's Pass, Ore., 
April 1911, The tree planted in dy- 
namited hole is two years old, Nov. 
1909 and June 1910 branches pruned. 
Photograph above, taken April 15, 1911, 
shows a vigorous tree with healthy and 
fine colored foliage. 

The tree in lower picture is of same 
stock, planted in spade dug hole, given 
same cultivation after planting as other 
tree. Slow growth prevented pruning. 
Its trunk is less than half-inch in diam- 
eter — many branches of dynamited tree 
are larger than this. Not one of 250 trees 
planted in dynamited holes died — a proof 
that Du Pont Dynamite insures sure, 
rapid, vigorous growth in all orchards. 

Address Dept. 1 8 for "Tree Planting" Booklet 

E. I. du Pont de Nemours Powder Co. 

Established 1802 :: Wilmington, Delaware 




115 



ADAMS COUNTY FRUIT RECORDS 

Shipments Over Gettysburg & Harrisburg R. R. 















IX) 

o ^ 














Is. sliii)i)c 
bulk 


Is. Total 


& p 
< . 


rs Potatc 
IS. to Cai 


ice Paid 
• Bbl. 


ice Paid 
1. for Bu 


ce Paid 
s. Potato 




Year 


6 


d 


No. Bb 


No. Cai 
(150 BI 


No. Ca: 
(500 bti 


> 

<; 


> (U 


> (U 



Gettysburg 

(G. & H. R. R.) 



Biglerville, 



Guernsey 



Bendersville, 



1905 
1906 
1907 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 



318 
28 
127 
12 
50 
41 
8813 
7932 
2785 
17164 
4956 
10785 
20017 
37897 
2870 
1771 
1414 
4798 
2173 
7320 
11659 
13600 
4163 
4000 
1109 
2824 
2264 
3531 
5628 
8894 



333 



987 



165 
4216 

137 
1500 

552 
2413 
1166 
1329 
2760 



1267 
363 

2351 
1561 
6268 

1200 
2132 
366 



651 
28 
127 
12 
50 
41 
9800 
7932 
2950 
21380 
4956 
10922 
21517 
38449 
5283 
2937 
2743 
7858 
2173 
7320 
12926 
13963 
4163 
6351 
2670 
9092 
2264 
4731 
7760 
9260 



65 
53 
20 
142 
33 
73 
144 
256 
35 
20 
18 
52 
15 
49 
86 
93 
28 
42 
18 
61 
15 
32 
52 
62 



1.00 $0.70 

2.20 1.50 $0.50 



1.40 
2 . 50 
2.00 
2.00 



1.50 



2.35 
1 . 50 
2.50 
2.00 
2.00 



1.50 



16 
20 
22 
21 
15 
30 



2.25 1.50 

1.40 

2.50 1.50 

2.00 

2.00 



.65 



,50 
65 
,50 



ii6 







■ 







The Be^ Spraying Equipment 
Money Can Buy 

THE OWNER OF A DEYO POWER SPRAYER knows that 
he has a completely equipped outfit and no extras to buy. 

HE KNOWS that it is operated by a DEYO engine and will run 
whenever he wants it and as long as he wants to use it. 

HE KNOWS that the tank is built of selected material by ex- 
pert workmen. 

HE KNOWS that the mechanically operated agitator assures him 
of a perfect mixture at all times. 

HE KNOWS that he has a short rig with which he can make any 
turn in his orchard. 

HE KNOWS that there are no belts or chains to catch on limbs 
or clothing. 

HE KNOWS that he can disconnect the engine from the pump in 
one minute and use it for any power purpose, and then connect it to the 
pump in another minute. 

HE KNOWS that he has the best sprayer that money and brains 
can build. 

BUY A DEYO POWER SPRAYER AND LET THE 
OTHER FELLOW WORRY. 

We have a large catalog completely describing the DEYO POWER 
SPRAYERS, which we will gladly mail you. Write for it to-day. 



Deyo-Macey Engine Co. 

BINGHAMTON, NEW YORK 



117 



Adams County Fruit Records 

Shipments Over Gettysburg & Harrisburg R. K.— iCouthmed) 









ipped 


ipped 


















)ls. 
bbl 
















No. 


No. 



(72 03 

o 



2 is 

o ^ 



o - 







ce Paid 
• Bbl. 


ice Paid 
I. for Bui 






Av. 


t ^ 



Gardners, 



Starners, 



Hunters Run, 
(Good year) 



G. & H. R. R., 

Total 



1903 


997 


985 


1982 


1905 


912 


5215 


6127 


1906 








1907 


6905 


5440 


12345 


1908 


433 




433 


1909 


2275 


4571 


6846 


1910 


1566 


3722 


5288 


1911 


3900 


4800 


8700 


1905 


682 


1016 


1698 


1906 


664 


133 


797 


1907 


1572 


219 


1791 


1908 


487 




487 


1909 


1825 


8 


1833 


1910 


2500 


2192 


4692 


1911 


2018 


668 


2686 


1903 


625 




625 


1905 


160 


160 


320 


1906 


295 


262 


557 


1907 


1417 


514 


1931 


1908 


1704 




1704 


1909 


1289 


510 


1799 


1910 


2103 


2190 


4293 


1911 


3750 


300 


4050 


1903 


17468 


4385 


21853 


1905 


15617 


9908 


25525 


1906 


6295 


3450 


9745 


1907 


34797 


19217 


54014 


1908 


12017 




12017 


1909 


27037 


6426 


33463 


1910 


43523 


13003 


56526 


1911 


70100 


7049 


77149 



(7) 

o 

u S 

13 

41 4 



82 4 $1.75 $1.50 $0.50 

3 1 

46 1.35 

35 1 

58 2.00 

11 5 

5 4 

12 3 

3 3 1.50 65 

12 4 2.50 55 

31 3 2.00 

18 2 2.00 



8 

5 1.50 .75 .50 

12 1.75 .85 .50 

1 1.50 

1 2.50 

1 

. . 2 . 00 



47 

35 

56 

39 1.45 .75 .65 

26 2.50 1.50 .55 

57 2.00 50 

9 2.00 



4 
2 
4 
13 
11 
12 
29 
27 
146 
170 
65 
360 
80 
223 
377 
514 



Gardners — 1906, 2 cars pears; 1907, i car pears; 1908, 2 cars pears; 1910, 2 cars 
pears, 4 cars peaches; 191 1 5 cars pears. 

Bendersville- — 1908, 2 cars pears; 1910, i car pears; 4 cars peaches; 191 1, 1009 
baskets peaches, 3 cars pears. 

Hunters Run — 1908, i car pears; 1910, i car pears; i car peaches. 

Biglerville — 1910, i car cherries; 4 cars cider syrvip; 43 cars canned apples; 5 cars 
evaporated apples; 191 1, 3 cars cider syrup, 100 cars canned apples; 8 cars evaporated 
apples. 

Guernsey — 1910, 7 cars peaches; 191 1, 210 pkgs. pears; 240 pkgs. plums; 650 pkgs. 
cherries. 

Starners — 1910, 2 cars peaches; 191 1, 300 bushels pears; 200 baskets peaches. 



ii8 



Deming Spray Pumps 

WHY You Should Use Them 




"Century" Barrel Spray Pump. Has submerged 
cylinders ; all breiss working pairts. Ecisy to oper- 
ate ; will maintain strong and steady pressure. 



YOU know now that you can raise better fruit and more of it 
at that— IF YOU SPRAY. You can get better results 
with a Deming outfit because it will require fewer repairs — 
is better able to stand the rough usage — than a.ny other pump. We 
can make a better pump because we have better facilities — larger 
factor}^ — longer experience. 

CL Our book, "How My Old Orchard Paid, " gives the experiences 
of a Pennsylvania farmer who used a Deming Sprayer. It's interest- 
ing and valuable. Send for it and our Spray Pump Catalogue. 

THE DEMING COMPANY 

SALEM, OHIO 

Manufacturers of Hand, Windmill and 
Power Pumps 

HARRIS PUMP & SUPPLY CO. 

PITTSBURGH, PA. 
General Distributing Agents 



119 



Adams County Fruit Records — ( Continued) 

Shipments Over Western Maryland R. R. 



Is. shi])i)c(l 
bbls. 


Is. shipped 
bulk 


Is. Total 


-s Apples 
)ls. to Car) 


rs Potatoes 
s. to Car) 








o 


c 


No. 


No. 




o if: 


IS 


1215 


809 


2024 


13 


3 













^ O 






















14; 





Fairfield, 



Virginia Mills, 



Orrtann; 



McKnightstown, 



Seven Stars, 



1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 



300 
300 



320 
326 



300 
300 





560 


560 ... 


4 







8800 9120 61 

1620 1620 11 

1519 1845 12 

30 30 



3300 




1062 




3659 




3177 


2342 


2686 


1020 


741 


840 


8216 


4045 


7043 


3846 


3438 




7895 


178 


2296 


254 


3393 


1155 


1785 


251 


7724 


2030 


14275 


1800 


26297 


2231 


28 




63 




42 




50 




26 


4 


175 


400 



3300 
1062 
3659 
5519 
3706 
1581 
12261 
10889 
3438 
8073 
2550 
4548 
2036 
9754 
1.6075 
28528 
28 
63 
42 
50 
30 
575 



22 
7 
24 
37 
25 
10 
82 
73 
23 
54 
17 
30 
13 
65 
107 
190 



1 $2.00 $1.50 $0.50 



2.40 1.50 



2.00 



1-3 
2 



1.00 
2.15 
1.75, 
2 . 50' 



1.00 
1.85 



1.50 



.47 
.50 



2.00 



2.00 



I20 




Ask us to send you Spraying Calendar and Directions — FREE 

NO matter whether yours is a large or a 
small spraying contract, our book on 
Spraying and Sprayers will be a great 
help to you. It tells you what spray mixtures 
to use, how to prepare mixtures, when 
to spray and how to spray to secure the 
best results. 

A SPRAYER to Suit Your Needs 

Our line includes everything from the 
small hand sprayer up to our Watson- 
Ospraymo Potato sprayers and our famous 
Power Orchard Spraying Rigs. 

Our LEADER Orchard Sprayers — 
are typical modern machines for large 
spraying operations. Equipped with liquid - 

Agitators and Strainer - Clean- 
ers. High-class Gasoline Engine — 
can be used separately to furnish power 
for all kinds of farm work. 

The EMPIRE 

KING— the old re- 
liable Barrel Spray- 
ing Outfit. A great 
" sprayer for general 
— purpose work, sole 
^ reliance of thousands 
for spraying fruit, 
' vegetables, shrubbery 
and small trees. Me- 
chanical Agitation of 
iquid Automatic- 
Strainer cleaners. 

Hand, Bucket and Knapsack Spray- 
ers. Something to suit every require- 
ment — every one the best of its kind. 

Be sure to nvrite and get our sprayer 
book before buying anything in the 
sprayer line. Mailed free. Address: 

FIELD FORCE PUMP CO. S 

GEO, H. HOFFMAN, Agent, Arendtsville, Pa. 




121 



Adams County Fruit Records— (Continued) 

Shipments Over Western Maryland R. R. — (Coniinued) 





Year 


'X 

5^ 

6 


c 


No. Bbls. Total 


No. Cars Apples 
(150 Bbls. to Car) 


No. Cars Potatoes 
(500 bus. to Car) 


Av. Price Paid 
Per Bbl. 


Av. Price Paid 
Per Bbl. for Bulk 


Av. Price Paid 
Per Bus. Potatoes 


Gettysburg, 


1906 


13 




13 












(W. M. R. R.) 


1907 


18 
23 




] 8 












1908 




23 














1909 


22 




22 














1910 


428 




428 


3 












1911 


36 




36 




1 










1907 


1033 


1033 


7 












1908 
















1909 




276 


276 


0 












1910 




695 


695 














1911 


390 


390 


2V2 












1907 


382 


618 


1000 


7 












1908 












1909 




















1910 




















1911 


















East Berlin, 


1905 


50 




50 














1906 


1140 


1193 


2333 


15 


1-3 


$1.80 


$0.90 


$0.70 




1907 


49 




49 




1/, 


2.25 


2.25 


.60 




1908 




















1909 


10 


205 


215 


2 












1910 


1 


1 


2 














1911 


18 


160 


178 


1 










W. M. R. R 


1903 


6738 




6738 


45 










Total 


1905 


10380 


1320 


11700 


78 


5 










1906 


7447 


1447 


8894 


59 


0 










1907 


7720 


13948 


21668 


144 


7 










1908 


4536 


2891 


7427 


49 


1 


1 75 








1909 


8873 


4870 


13743 


91 


1-3 


2.50 


1.50 






1910 


22946 


7135 


30081 


201 












1911 


33959 


6637 


40596 


270 


1% 


2.00 







Littlestown — 1 910, 3 cars apples, 2 cars potatoes; 191 1 — 2 cars apples. 
Dillsburg — 1910, 2 cars apples; 1911; 2 cars apples. 
McKnightstown- — 191 1, i car pears. 
Orrtanna — 191 1, 620 baskets peaches. 
Charmian — 191 1, 48 barrels apples. 



Save Your Fruit From Damage, 

THE widespread increase of the codling: moth and othei* insects injuri- 
ous to frttit trees causes an annual loss to growers of seven million 
dollars a year. The surest way for you to prevent your fruit from 
being wormy or badly damaged is to carry out a regular plan of spray- 
ing with some reliable material. 

Sherwin-Williams 
NEW PROCESS ARSENA TE OF LEAD 

is a general insecticide for all leaf-eating insects. It is superior to many 
other brands on the market^ because it contains the arsenic in exactly the 
right proportion and the proper chemical combination, thus insuring a 
material that will not injure or scorch the foliage but is sure death to in- 
sects feeding on the leaves. It is extremely miscible in water and will 
combine readily with Lime-Sulfur and Bordeaux Mixture. Light in grav- 
ity, it remains well in suspension so that a uniformly poisonous spray 
can be thrown from the finest nozzle,. For prices and turther informa- 
tion on this product, come in and see us. 69* 

"PARASITES LIVE ON THE PROFITS" 

Save your fruit and crops from damage with 

Sherwin-Williams High Quality Insecticides 

S-W New Process Arsenate of Lead (Paste) S-W Paris Green 

S-W New Process Arsenate of Lead (Powdered) S-W Bordeaux Mixture 

S-W Lime-Sulfur Solution S-W Pruning Compound 

S-W Carbolinol (Vermicide) 

Send for our Hand-book, "Spraying a Profitable Investment" 

THE SHERWIN-WILLIAMS CO. 

Manufacturers High Quality 
PHILADELPHIA, PA. Insecticides and Fungicides NEWARK, N. J. 



123 



Adams County Fruit Records — {Continued) 

Total Fruit Marketed in County. 



So 



o 

d 

c 



■4-1 cS 



5- 

o 

d 



a; W 
<1 



Total shipped, 



Evaporated, 



Canned, 



Cider, 



Total fruit. 



1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1903 
1905 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1905 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 



24206 
25997 
13742 
42517 
16553 
35910 
67219 
104659 



4385 
11228 

4897 
33165 

2891 
11296 
20138 
13686 

6547 
10670 

8333 



28591 
37225 
18639 
75682 
19444 
47206 
87557 
118345 
6547 
10670 
8333 



191 
248 
124 
504 
129 
314 
583 
789 
44 
71 
56 



38 
63 



40 $1.50 $0.75 $0.60 
27 2.50 1.50 .50 
61^2 2.00 1.20 .50 
10 2.00 .75 1.00 



,75 



24206 
25997 
13742 
42517 
16553 
35910 
67219 
104659 



4666 
8600 
21750 
2400 
10000 
1673 
12398 
16700 
25000 
9524 
6670 
5714 
11120 
12500 
10932 
24298 
4897 
61022 
11234 
34074 
56558 
72936 



4666 
8600 
21750 
2400 
10000 
1673 
12398 
16700 
25000 
9524 
6670 
5714 
11120 
12500 
35138 
50295 
18639 
103539 
27787 
69984 
123777 



31 
57 
145 
16 
67 
11 
82 
111 
167 
63 
44 
38 
74 
83 
234 
335 
124 
690 
185 
465 



1.00 



52 
38 
63 
40 
27 



825 61 y2 



177595 1184 



10 



2.25 
1.50 
2.50 
2.00 
2.00 



1.75 
.75 
1.50 
1.20 
.75 



.55 
.60 
.50 
.50 
1.00 



Comparison of Percentages 













u 






























0 






<u ^ 


•ate 


r Cent, 
anned 


G 




u 

rt 


XJ <v 
"1 






<L» 


CJ ^ 0 




^.-^ 












1903 


70 


12 


18 






100% 
143% 
295% 


1905 


52 


22 


26 






1907 


41 


32 


8 


10 


9 


1909 


51 


16 


7 


18 


8 


200% 


1910 


54 


16 


7 


14 


9 


356% 


1911 


59 


8 


12 


14 


7 


500% 



124 



TO RAISE GOOD FRUIT or VEGETABLES YOU MUST 

SPRAY 

"ORCHARD BRAND" 

SPRAY MATERIALS 

are 

Known and used by the best Fruit and Vegetable Growers. 

''ORCHARD BRAND'' 

LIME SULPHUR SOLUTION BORDEAUX ARSENATE LEAD 

A combined scale remedy and MIXTURE 

Fungicide. A Fungicide and Insecticide. 

SOLUBLE OIL ATOMIC SULPHUR 

A Scale remedy for Apple and The best known Fungicide. 
Pear trees, Ornamental Shrub- 
bery and Hedges. ATOMIC SULPHUR combined 
ARSENATE OF LEAD ARSENATE OF LEAD 

•c ]] ] c ■ 1 • A complete Fungicide and In- 

ror all leat eatmg or chewmg • 

secticide. 

msects. 

BORDEAUX MIXTURE ATOMIC SULPHUR combined 

A Fungicide. with ZINC ARSENITE 

A remedy for the control of 
Bugs and Blight on Potatoes 



ZINC ARSENITE 

An Insecticide. and similar Truck Products. 

Our Farm Census Plan If ill Enable You to Groiv Fruit and J egetables 

Successfully . 

IT IS FREE WRITE FOR BLANKS 

Thomsen Chemical Company 

BALTIMORE, MD. 




One of the Greenhouses at State College, Showing the 
Student Plots. 



126 



EttKlOiitAfioihtlK^iier 



THIS low-priced harrow for orchards and vineyards 
— and general use — is a world-beater. Wonderfully 
light of draft — weight earned on wheels, not on 
horses' necks. Great worker — 20 to 30 acres a day with 
one team — and every inch of soil cultivated thoroughly 
' ■ — lifted and turned in long wavy level. Best of all — 

It hangs low and has great extension — making it a snap 

right up to trees without horse or driver disturbing boughs or fruit. 

Find Out in Your Orchard— At Our Risk! 




■yiT'RITE TODAY for catalog and 30 day 
trial offer. Pick the machine suited 
to your soil and orchard and use it for a 

Send for This Free Book 

" Modern Orchard Tillage"— written by high 
successful orchardibl — contains information 
that may be worth hundreds of dollars lo you 



month — and send it back if you don't 
find it the finest cultivator made. 




V* 4hi Draft Harrow Co. 

910 CJ Jcvada Si. Marshal Itown, la. 

Sole Pennsylvania Representative 

EDWIN C. TYSON, Flora Dale, Pa. 




Starting Muskmei^ons in Hotbeds. 
(Courtesy of C. G. Woodbury, Lafayette, Ind.) 



128 



The Christmas Store 



Ready — Everything ready. The Gift things have all 
been here for several days 



HANDKERCHIEFS — The Great Christmas article. Never so 
many as now. Ladies', Gentlemen's and Childrens. A beau- 
tiful line of them — Ic. to $1.00 each. Japanese hand-marked 
linens, all sizes. Other linens of all kinds. 

GLOVES, FURS, BLANKETS, RUGS, HOSIERY 

A beautiful line of Ladies' Neckwear for Christmas. Gent's 
Neckwear. Special prices give on Ladies' Coats for Holidays. 

See our line of Christmas Fancy Novelties before purchasing elsewhere 

DOUGHERTY & HARTLEY, Gettysburg 




Grasselli 

ARSENATE OF LEAD 



Grasselli 

Lime Sulphur Solution 



Extensively used wherever fruit is grown. 

Distributors in all consuming districts. 

Write for name of nearest distributor. 

THE GRASSELLI CHEMICAL CO. OF PENNA. 



811 Bessemer Bldg. 
PITTSBURG, PA. 



2143 N. American Street 
PHILADELPHIA, PA. 



129 



THE 

Citizen's Trust Company 

OF GETTYSBURG 

President, Vice Pres., Treasurer, 

GEO. W. SWARTZ W. T. ZIEGLER H. L. SNYDER 

Your Bank Account and Trust Business Solicited 

^IWe pay 3^2% on CERTIFICATE if left 60 days or 
more. We act as Guardian, Trustee, Administrator or Ex- 
ecutor, in settling up estates. 

^ Courteous treatment and prompt attention to business a 
feature. 

R. WM. BREAM, Secretary. 




Skinner System of Irrigation With Ceeery. 



' I "U TJ* p O Fruit, Shade, Ornamental Trees, Shrubbery, Hedges, 
R IxCjCjO Small Fruit, Asparagus, Strawberries, California Pri- 
I vet, Locust and Catalpa Speciosa for timber. 

Have to Offer FIRST-CLASS NURSERY STOCK 

In Large or Small Quantities 
Also Large and Small Spray Pumps and Fittings 

CALL. WRITE OR PHONE 

C A. Stoner, Prop. BATTLEFIELD NURSERIES Gettysburg, Pa. 

Office and Packing: Grounds : 42 West High Street 



Capital, $145,150 

Surplus and Undivided Profits, 
$162,000 

Pays 3% per cent, on Special Deposits 

^ We offer the public the use of our large fire-proof and 
burglar-proof safe deposit vaults FREE. 

WM. McSHERRY, President E. M. BENDER, Cashier 

Arendtsville Planing Mill and Barrel Factory 

p. S. ORNER, Proprietor ARENDTSVILLE, PA. 

J^'f'g of Apple "Barrels and MILL WOKK 

S tabes a Specialty of all Description, and 

PRICES LOW Lumber of all kinds 

Call, Phone or Write— United Phone 



INDEX 



A 

Addresses — 

President's, 23-25 

"Apple Diseases," 26-32 

"Peach Culture," 33-38 

"The Influence of Fertilization and Other Factors Upon 

Yield, Color, Size and Growth in Apples," 39-53 

"Size, Color and Quality in Fruits," 54-62 

"The Making of Concentrated Lime-Sulphur and its Use 

on Apples and Peaches," 63-65 

"Educating- an Orchard," 66-70 

"Cold Storage a Necessity," 83-90 

"P)usiness Methods in Marketing Apples," 91-98 

"Eastern Fruit Growers' Association, Its Plans and Pros- 
pects," 99-106 

Apple-Diseases, 26-32 

Importance of Grading 94 

A'arieties, 97 

Scab 27 

Amendments 19 

Adams, W. S. (Adv.), 136 

Ammonia Storage, 85 

Allis, Clark, 51, 66-70, 81, 83-90 

Advertisers — 

York Chemical Works (Fertilizers), 14 

Bateman Mfg. Co. (Sprayers), 8 

Musselm.an Canning Co. (Greeting), 18 

Goulds Mfg. Co. (Sprayers), 16 

Bowker Insecticide Co. (Spray Materials), 2 

U. S. Klinefeker (Barrels), . .' 136 

Grasselli Chemical Co. (Spray Materials), 128 

B. G. Pratt Co. (Spray Materials), 12 

F'irst National Bank of Gettysburg, 134 

Gettysburg National Bank, 130 

J. G. Harrison & vSons (Nursery Stock), 4 

W. C. Reiter (Bolster Springs), no 

P. S. Orner (Barrels), 130 

Bendersville National Bank, 140 

Biglerville National Bank, 108 

The Deming Co. (Sprayers), 118 

Field Force Pump Co. (Spravers), 120 

Walter S. Schell (Seeds), 22 

Thomson Chemical Co. (Spray Materials), 124 

John S. Tilley (Ladders), 112 

E. I. duPont de Nemours Powder Co. (Dynamite), .... 114 

Battlefield Nurseries 130 

Citizens' Trust Co., Gettysburg, 129 

Light Draft Harrow Co. (Orchard Harrows), 126 

The Sherwin-Williams Co. (Spray Materials), 122 

Deyo-Macey Engine Co. (Sprayers), 116 

Madison Cooper Co. (Gravity Brine Storage), 138 

Franklin Davis Nursery Co 134 

G. P. Read (Packages and Cushions), 10 

Hamilton Orchard Heater Co., 132 

W. PL Tipton (Photograph), 132 

Dougherty & Hartley (Dry Goods), 128 

Edwin C. Tyson (Horticultural Requisites), 141 

Vreeland Chemical Co. (Spray Materials), 20 

T. S. Hubbard Co. (Grapevines and small fruits), 132 

Horticultural Chemical Co. (Sprav Materials), 6 

W. S. Adams (Warehouse), 136 



132 



Hamilton Reservoir Orchard Heater 




CTHE REGULATED FIRE or Heat Control is secured 
only in this heater and is of the greatest importance in "Out 
of doors" heating. 

CL Write us for literature telling you all about this wonderful 
heater and what it has done for thousands of growers. 

HAMILTON ORCHARD HEATER CO. 

Grand Junction, Colorado 



Established 44 Ytan 

Grape Vines 

Larger Stock and 
Be^ Varieties 



C For garden and vineyard 
planting; also Currants, Goose- 
berries and other small fruit 
plants. Parties intending to 
plant are requested to corres- 
pond with us. 

Our Catalogue is Free 

T. S. HUBBARD CO. 

FREDONIA, N. Y. 



W. H. TIPTON 

The Leader in 

GETTYSBURG, PA. 

C All the latest effects in Artis- 
tic Portraiture. Souvenir Store 
connected with Studio. Battle- 
field Views, Souvenir Albums, 
Post Cards, etc. , etc. 



20 and 22 Chambersburg St. 



133 



Adams County Fruit Records, 24 

Gettysburg & Harrisburg R. R, Shipments, 115, 117 

AVestern Maryland R. R. Shipments, 119, 121 

Total Fruit, 123 

Adams County Orchard Photographs, 39, 54, 66 

Advantage of Low Heading, 67 

Advertising, 93, 103 

Spraying, 66 

Storage, 83, 99 



B 



Bateman Mfg. Co. (Adv.), 8 

Bendersville National Bank (Adv.), 140 

Biglerville National Bank (Adv.), 108 

Bowker Insecticide Co. (Adv.), 2 

Battlefield Nurseries (Adv.), 130 

Bolster Springs, no 

By-laws, 19-21 

Boyer, John F., 33-38 

Barrels, 130, 136 

Cushions, Caps and Circles for, 10 

Dimensions of, loi 

Basic lag, 51 

Business Methods in Marketing Apples, 91, 140 



C 

Committees, List of, 19 

Duties of, 19, 21 

Cultivating Machiner}^, 126 

Constitution, 7 

Carbonic Acid Gas Storage, 85 

Cultivation, 36 

Cedar Rust, 24, 27 

Citizens' Trust Co., 129 

Cold Storage, Need of, 83-90 

Compressed Air Sprayers, 24 

Crop Reports, 102, 115, 117, 119, 121, 123 

Concentrated Lime-Sulphur Solution, 63 

Commercial Lime- Sulphur, 6, 2, 20, 122, 124, 128, 141 

Color of Apples, Data on, 47 



D 



DuPont de Nemours Powder Co. (Adv.), 114 

Deyo-Macey Engine Co. (Adv.), 116 

Deming Co. (Adv.), 118 

Davis, Franklin & Co. (Adv.), 134 

Dues, 17 

Duties of Officers, 19-21 

Diluting Concentrated Lime-Sulphur Solution, 64 

Discussion following address of — 

John F. Boyer, 36 

Dr. J. P. Stewart, Si 

Clark Allis 69, 88 

Prof. U. P. Hedrick, 81 

W. J. Lewis, 95 

E 

Executive Committee — 

List of, 3 

Duties of, 21 

Eldon, R. M., 23, 36, 69, 81, 88, 95 

Experimental Orchards, Report on, 35-53 

Educating an Orchard, 66-70 

Eastern Fruit Growers' Association, 99 



134 



ESTABLISHED 1850 1,200 ACRES 



TREES 



WE ARE WHOLESALE GROWERS OF 

First Class Nursery Stock 

OF ALL KINDS 

Fruit, Shade, Ornamental Trees, Shrubbery, Hedges, Small Fruits, etc.. 
Asparagus, Strawberries and California Privet 

IN LARGE QUANTITIES 

The BEST is the CHEAPEST. Ours is the CHEAPEST because it is 
the BEST. Handling Dealers' orders a specialty. Catalogue free. 

Franklin Davis Nursery Company 

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 



First National Bank 

GETTYSBURG, PA. 
Capital, $100,000.00; Surplus, $150,000.00 

S, M. BUSHMAN. President J. ELMER MUSSELMAN, Cashier 

^ Pays Interest on Certificates for six 
months or more at 3}4% per annum. 

DIRECTORS 

SAM'L BUSHMAN G. H. TROSTEL JNO. D. BROWN 

J. L. BUTT W. S. ADAMS P. A. MILLER 

C. H. MUSSELMAN 

Accounts Solicited However Small 



135 



First National Bank, Gettysburg (Adv.), 134 

Field Force Pump Co. (Adv.), 120 

Fire Blight, 137 

Fancy Fruit, 38, 39, 54, 58, 63, 66, 82 

Fulton, Prof. H. R., 26-32 

Fruit Districts, 19 

Frame, Nat T., 99 

Formula for Lime-Sulphur Solution, 63 

Fruit Exhibits, Report on, , 109 

Adams County Records, 115, 117, 119, 121, 123 

Part at Pittsburg Fruit Show (Illustration), 82 

Fertilizers, 14 

For Orchards, 36, 39, 53 

Experiment in Adams County, 52 

Fungicide, 2, 6, 20, 122, 124, 128, 141 



Gould Mfg. Co. (Adv.), 16 

Grasselli Chemical Co. (Adv.), 128 

Gettysburg National Bank (Adv.). 130 

Gettvsburg & Harrisburg R, R., (Fruit Shipments Over), 115, 117 

Griest, C. S., 36 

H 

Horticultural Chemical Co. (Adv.), 6 

Harrison, J. G. & Sons (Adv.), ; 4 

Hamilton Orchard Heater Co. (Adv.), 132 

Hedrick, Prof. U. P., 54-62, 69, 71-82, 89 

Houck, P. L., 96 

Horticultural Requisites, 141 

I 

Illustrations — 

Twig Blight of Apples 26 

Cedar Rust 28 

Diagonal Pack, , 140 

Side View of Boxes, 106 

Apples from Unsprayed Trees, 32 

Advantage of Spraying, 65 

Fine York Imperial Apple Tree, 91 

Packing Adams County Apples, 54 

Picking Adams County York Imperial, 66 

Well Tilled Orchard, 77 

State College Greenhouses, , 125 

Well grown Winesap Tree, 49 

Ohio Cold Storage House, 83 

Section of Gravity Brine Storage, 86 

Extent of Tree Roots, 33, 53 

Brine Tank of Cooper Storage System, 87 

Plate of A_dams County Apples. 63 

Cluster of Adams County Winter Banana, 71 

Two Methods of Planting, 107 

Basket of Adams County York Imperials, 39 

Dish of Strawberries, 38 

Cluster of Adams County York Imperial, 58 

Low Headed Apple Tree, 143 

Thrifty Orchard in Hagerstown Clay Loam, 41 

Unsprayed Tree Defoliated by Leaf Spot, 29 

Ohio Greenhouse, . ., , 127 

Unpruned York Imperial Eight Years Old, 62 

Starting Muskmelons in Hot Bed, 127 

Skinner System of Irrigation, 129 

Adams County Blue Ribbon Fruit at Pittsburg Show, 82 

Stayman Apple, 98 



136 



Hill Top Orchards Warehouse Co. 

ASPERS, PA. 

Flour, Feed and 
General Merche^ndise 

BELL PHONE-Mt. Holly Exchange 
UNITED PHONE— Biglerville Exchange 

U. S. KLINEFELTER 

MANUFACTURER OF 

Standard Apple Barrels 

Of Excellent Quality 
DEALER IN 

Fruit Baskets 

Of Various Kinds 
BIGLERVILLE. PENNSYLVANIA 

United Phone 



137 



I. 



Lafean Apple, Package and Grade Bill, lOO, loi 

Lime-Sulphur — 

Method of making, 63 

Strength to use Commercial, 64 

Lewis, W. J., , 88, 91-98 

Light Draft Harrow Co. (adv.), 126 



M 



Membership — 

Roll of, 5, 7, 9, II, 13, 15 

Constitutional requirement for, 17 

Increase in, 23 

Marketing. 92 

Mulching, effect of, 45 

Musselman Canning Co. (adv.), 18 

Madison Cooper Co. (Adv.), 138 



O 



Officers — ■ 

List of, 3 

Consist of, 17 

Duties of, 19-21 

Objects of Association, , 17 

Order of Business, 21 

Orchard — 

Cultivation of, 68 

Orange Rust in, 27 

Orner, P. S. (Adv.), 130 



P 



Pratt Co., B. G. (Adv.), 12 

President's Address, 23 

Pruning, Methods of, 67-69, 70 

Peach Culture 33-38 

Planting, Method of, 67, 107 



R 

Reiter, W. C. (Adv.), no 

Read, G. P., no 

Report of Fruit Exhibit, 109 



S 



Size of Apples not a True Test of Value, 55 

Size, Color and Quality in Fruits, S4-62 

Spray Injury, , 64 

Sherwin-Williams Co. (Adv.), 122 

Schell, Walter S. (Adv.), 22 

Symmons Bill 102 

Stewart, Dr. J. P., 39-53, 63-65, 70 

Spravers, Various Types of, 24 

Sod Mulch, Tillage, 71 

Defined, 73 

Advantages of, 74 

Effect on Foliage, 76 

Spraying, Importance of care in, 24 

Value of, 68 

Styles in Fruits, , 103 



138 



Cold Storage 

is the best way of keeping fruit. 

Everybody Knows That 

CL Write for description of the best 
cold storage system. 

CAs simple to operate as an ice 
cream freezer. 

(See remarks of Clark Allis elsewhere in this book.) 

Printed matter on request. 

MADISON COOPER CO. 

No. 123 COURT STREET 



CALCIUM, N. Y. 



139 

Storage — 

Common, 95 

Cold, 89 

Cost of, 87, 98 

Of Lime-sulphur, 64 



T 



Tillage v. Sod-Mulch, 71 

Defined, 72 

Object of, 73 

Affect of, on keeping in storage, 77 

Affect of, on Soil Temperature, 79 

Trees, Heading of, ZJ, ^7 

Tipton, W. H. (Adv.), 13-2 

Thomson Chemical Co. (Adv.), 124 

Tillev, John S. (Adv.), 112 

Tables— 

I. Experimental Orchards, 40 

II. Influence of fertilizers on Yield, 42 

III. Effect of Fertilizers on Yield, 42 

IV. Influence of Cultural Methods and Fertilizers on 

Yield, 44 

V. & VI. Effect of Fertilizer Elements on Yield, Color, 

Size and Growth, 46 

VII. Yield of Fertilizer Experiment, Tyson Orchard, .... 52 

Results of Sod and Tillage on Yield compared, .... 75 

Twig Blight, 26 

Time for thinning and pruning, 36, 37 

V 

Varieties — 

Apples, 97 

Peaches, 37 

Vreeland Chemical Co. (Adv.), 20 



W 

Western Marvland R. R., Shipments over, 19, 21 

Well Tilled Orchard, 77 



Y 



York Chemical Co. (Adv.), 

York Imperial (Illustrations regarding), 



14 

39, 58, 62, 66, 99 



140 



The Bendersville National Bank 

BENDERSVILLE, PA. 

Pays 3.65% Interest on ALL Certificates 
of Deposit for SIXTY DAYS or more 

YOUR ACCOUNT RESPECTFULLY SOLICITED 

Nov. 26. 1910 Nov. 26. 19/1 

Surplus and Profits (earned) $4,770.11 $7,499.88 
Assets $109,712.58 $161,315.33 

OUR DEALINGS M^ITH CUSTOMERS ARE ALMAYS CONFIDENTIAL 

CALL TO SEE US 
You will Receive Prompt and Courteous Treatment 

J. G. STOVER. President S. B. GOCHNAUR. Vice President I. C. BUCHER, Cashier 



141 



Orchard 

Requisites 

**NOT THE CHEAPEST- -BUT THE BEST" 

NO matter how favorably your orchard may be located, as to 
elevation, typography, soil texture, fertility or proximity to 
good markets, success will not be yours to the full satisfy- 
ing extent we all desire unless you do certain things and DO THEM 
WELL. How well these needful things are done will measure your 
success. Do not be satisfied with anything short of the highest rank. 

€L Having determined to do your work intelligently and thorough- 
ly, do not consider anything but the BEST TOOLS AND MA- 
TERIALS. The labor cost is always the highest cost. Do not 
handicap good labor with poor implements. 

€L We are prepared to furnish anything needed in orchard work. 
It has been our constant aim to reach the highest rank of efficiency 
in material, tools and machinery. Catalogs are yours for the asking. 
The listbelow indicates some of the more important things we handle. 



SOME THINGS WE HANDLE 



"Scaleclde" Gasoline and Compressed Air Sprayers 

Lime-Sulphur Traction, Barrel and Hand Sprayers 

Pyrox Hose, Rods, Nozzles, Fittings 

Disparene Pruning Saws, Shears and Ladders 

Weed Killer Orchard Harrows, Cultivators & Heaters 

Formaldehyde Picking Bags, Baskets & Metal Vessels 



Baskets, Boxes, Barrels and Crates 
Sorters, Presses, Pliers 
Magnifiers and Hydrometers 
Potato Machinery 
Fertilizers for Farm and Orchard 
Flower Food, etc., etc. 



Write or 'phone us regarding- your wants. We shall be glad to quote 
WHOLESALE RATES TO MEMBERS F. G. A. 



Edwin C. Tyson 

Wholesale Orchard Tools and Supplies 

Box 57 FLORA DALE, PA. 



142 




Low Headed AdpeE Tree — 8 Years Oi.d. 
Orchard of George T. Powell — Dwarfed by late summer pruning. 



Eighth Annual Convention will be Held 
December I8, I9, 20, I912. 



€ig{)tf) Annual Conbention 




Proceedings for 
The Year 1912 



Held at Bendersville^^-^^^ Pennsylvania 
Dec. Eighteenth, Nineteenth and Twentieth 



THE 

Fruit Growers Association 

of Adams County 

Pennsylvania 

ORGANIZED DECEMBER 18, 1903 



PROCEEDINGS 

OF THE 

EIGHTH ANNUAL CONVENTION 

HELD IN 

Fruit Growers Hall, Bendersville, Penna. 
Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 
December 18, 19, 20, 1912 



2 




Get FIRST Prize 
For Your Fruit 

Spray with Bowker's ^Tyrox" 

and secure fruit that is free from insect dam- 
age and fungus disfigurement. "PYROX" fills 
the Barrel with the kind they used to put on 
top. 

Bowker's Lime Sulphur 

for all scale insects is made heavy and rich, and 
for that reason is more effective than lighter 
mixtures ; and as a rule it costs no more. When 
you clean up your trees with Lime Sulphur, be 
sure to use Bowker's for it is the kind you can 
rely on to do effective work. 

WE SHIP FROM BALTIMORE 



WRITE FOR AGENCIES TO 

INSECTICIDE CO. 

43 Chatham Street, Boston, Mass. 



BOWKER 

E. C. TYSON, State Agent, Flora Dale, Pa. 



Officers 

President, Robert M. Eldon, Aspers 

1st Vice President, C. J. Tyson, Flora Dale 

2nd Vice President, C. A. Griest, Guernsey 

3rd Vice President, C. E. Raffensperger, Arendtsville 

4th Vice President, E. P. Garrettson, Biglerville 

5^// Vice President, J. G. Stover, M.D Bendersville 

Recording Secretary, Chas. A. Wolfe, Aspers 

Corresponding Secretory Edwix C. Tysox Flora Dale 

Treasurer, Wm. S. Adams Aspers 



Executive Committee 



Robert M. Eedox, Aspers 

C. J. Tyson, Flora Dale 

C. A. Griest, , Guernsey 

C. E. Raffensperger, Arendtsville 

E. P. Garrettson, Biglerville 

J. G. Stover, M.D., Bendersville 

Chas. A. Wolfe, Aspers 

Edwin C. Tyson Flora Dale 

Wm. S. Adams, Aspers 



3 



4 



HOW TO GROW 
AND MARKET fRUIT 




CThe BOOK that tells "how" and 
"why." It is brand new and thor- 
oughly up-to-date. Nearly 150 pages, 
24 pages of pictures. With an order 
for ;^5.00 worth of trees or plants, this 
book is free. The price otherwise is 
50 cents — rebated on first $5.00 order. 

1913 CATALOGUE- FREE 

CThe biggest and best we have ever 
issued. It's full of fine color plates 
and information valuable to fruit grow- 
ers. Edition is limited. Send now 
for copy. 





VALUABLE FARMS FOR SALE 




5 



Membership Roll 



Adams. Wm. S.. Aspers, Pa., 

Adams. Mrs. \V. S.,, Aspers, Pa., 

Aspen D. C. Aspers, Pa., 

Asper, Chas. F.. Aspers, Pa., 

Anderson. H. W Stewartstown, Pa. 

Anderson, Joseph W.. Stewartstown. Pa. 

Anderson, H. M., New Park, Pa. 

Arnold. T. Raymond York. Pa. 

Bream. Samuel, Biglerville. Pa. 

Bream, Dill Bendersville, Pa. 

Bream. Wm. E.. Biglerville. Pa. 

Bream. H. T Aspers. Pa. 

Bream. M. F York Springs. Pa. 

Boyer, W. \V Arendtsville. Pa. 

Black, Wm. H Flora Dale, Pa. 

Baugher, H. G., Aspers, Pa. 

Baugher, Ira, Aspers, Pa. 

Baugher. Martin Aspers, Pa. 

Bucher. John, Bendersville, Pa. 

Belt. T. E., Wellsville, Pa. 

Butt. J. L.. Gettv-sburg. Pa. 

Bosler. Frank C CarHsle. Pa. 

Brough. Edward Biglerville, Pa. 

Bender, Lee M Martinsburg, W. Va. 

Bassett, Charles E Fennville, Mich. 

Bingham, W. O St. Thomas, Pa. 

Boyer, George E., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Bushman. S. F Gettysburg. R. F. D.. Pa 

Brame. Edw Aspers. Pa. 

Blessing. David H Harrisburg. Pa. 

Black. Moses. Aspers, Pa. 

Blair. C. I Aspers, Pa. , 

Bream. W. A., Gettv-sburg. Pa. 

Cocklin. B. F Mechanicsburg. R. F. D., Pa. 

Cook, Arthur E.. Aspers, Pa. 

Cook. J. W Flora Dale. Pa. 

CulHson, Robt Tillie, Pa. 

Crowe. John W., Gettv-sburg. Pa. 

Carey, Calvin, Gettv-sburg. R. F. D. No. 5. Pa. 

Carson. E. E Bendersville. Pa. 

Cole. A. W Orrtanna. R. F. D., Pa. 

Crouse, E. A., Gettysburg, Pa. 



6 




Fig. 761 Duplex double acting power Spray pump 
for connecting by belt to any gasoline engine 

C You can get better results with a Deming Sprayer be- 
cause it will require fewer repairs, and is better able to 
stand the rough usage than any other pump We have 
had more experience ; we operate a larger factory than any 
other spray pump manufacturers. 

C This Duplex pump is only one of 27 Deming spray pumps 
for all spraying conditions. Our 1913 Catalogue contains 
full particulars. Write for it. 

THE DEMING COMPANY, Salem, Ohio 

Manufacturers of Hand, Windmill, Power and Spray Pumps 



7 



Deardorff, Anthony, Mummasburg, Pa 

Deardorff, Henry Arendtsville, Pa. 

Deardorff. H. W Tillie, Pa. 

Deardorff, W. B., Gettysburg, R. F, D. No. 5, Pa, 

Dill Dr. M. T., Biglerville, Pa. 

Dull. Thomas Aspers, Pa. 

Dunlap, James M ...Walnut Bottom. Pa. 

Davis, Wm York Springs, Pa. 

Day, T. F Aspers, Pa. 

Dougherty, Dorsey Gettysburg, Pa. 

Dickey. Samuel Oxford, Pa. 

Deatrick. H. G Hunterstown, Pa. 

Diller, A., York Springs, Pa. 

Eldon. Robert M Aspers, Pa. 

Eldon, Mrs. R. M Aspers, Pa. 

Eppleman. J. W., \spers. Pa. 

Everhart, G. W York, Pa. 

Eby. Amos Mt. Joy, Pa. 

Eiholtz, S. Mc, Biglerville, Pa. 

Eppleman, E. E Aspers, Pa. 

Eppleman, H. C, Aspers, Pa. 

Estabrook, F. L Athens, Pa. 

Finnefrock, Thomas Bendersville, Pa. 

Fohl, George E., Biglerville, Pa. 

Fiddler. W. B., \spers. Pa. 

Felty, G. B. O Millersville, Pa. 

French, Albert, 545 Mountain Avenue, Mont- 

clair, N. J. 

Griest, C. Arthur Guernsey, Pa. 

Griest, Mrs. C. A Guernsey, Pa. 

Griest, C. S Guernsey. Pa. 

Griest, A. W Baltimore, Md. 

Griest, Frederic E Philadelphia, Pa. 

Griest, G. G 30 Church St., N. Y. City. 

Griest, Maurice 105 W. 163d St., N. Y. City 

Griest, Chas. J., York Springs, Pa. 

Garrettson, Frank Aspers, Pa. 

Garretson, Eli P Biglerville, Pa. 

Garretson, Harriet Biglerville, Pa. 

Garrettson, J. B Aspers, Pa. 

Garretson, Robert Flora Dale, Pa. 

Garrettson. John Aspers, Pa. 

Garrettson, Eli Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 6, Pa. 

Grove, W. E York Springs, Pa. 

Gillan, R. J St. Thomas, Pa. 

Groupe, Foster C , Idaville, Pa. 

Gardner, E. M., Jr., York Springs, Pa. 



8 




With a DEYO POWER SPRAYER 

You are READY to spray the day conditions are ripe 

^ No delay tinkering the machine. 

^ No endless adjusting to make it work right 

^ No countless parts to buy and wait for until the vital time to spray 
has passed. 

Dcyo Power Sprayer 

is always ready, always satisfactory, because it's made right, of best 
materials, by skilled mechanics, under the personal instruction and direction 
of Mr. Deyo. 

C. You, as a Fruit Grower, know that the San Jose Scale 
is worse this year than ever before. Make your plans early, 
therefore, to give your orchard the proper care. No investment pays so 
well as the money put into a Deyo Power Sprayer. 
C IVrite us to-day and we will send you at once our illustrated booklet 
telling all about the Deyo Power Sprayer, and give ^ou some facts, 
in regard to it that are hard for an^ Grower to get aWay from. 

DEYO-MACEY ENGINE CO. 

BINGHAMPTON, N. Y. 

We manufacture nothing but DEYO POWER SPRAYERS and DEYO ENGINES- -Engine Sizes 152 to 16 H.P. 



9 



Gochnauer, J. D York Springs, R. F. D., Pa, 

Gochnauer, Jacob S.. Aspers, Pa. 

Gracey. Robert. Newville, Pa. 

Gove. Mary E.. Bendersville, Pa. 

Guise. D. H.. Emmittsburg, Md. 

House, O. P Aspers. Pa. 

Harris. Meriam, Bendersville, Pa. 

Hoffman. Jas. O., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Hoffman. E. N., Biglerville, Pa. 

Hoffman, Daniel, Aspers, Pa. 

Hoffman. George, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Hoffman, Willis Biglerville, Pa. 

Harshman, U. W., Waynesboro, Pa. 

Huber. Charles H Gettysburg. Pa. 

Hartman. Geo. R.. Biglerville, Pa. 

Hull, D. W Waymart, Pa. 

Hummel, P. T Harrisburg, Pa. 

Hazard, Willis Hatfield West Chester, Pa. 

Hershey, C. A., McKnightstown, Pa. 

Heilman, J. R Palmyra, R. F. D. 2, Pa. 

Hertig. John \rendtsville. Pa. 

Hart, H. V., Martinsburg, W. Va. 

Jacobs, Daniel C. Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Keller. H. M Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Klinefelter, U. S., Biglerville, Pa. 

Kane. J. A Biglerville, Pa. 

Kane, J. Lewis, Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 6, Pa. 

Knouse, J. A \rendtsville, Pa. 

Knouse, David Arendtsville, Pa. 

Koser, Rev. D. T Arendtsville, Pa. 

Koser, G. W Arendtsville, Pa. 

Kunkle, John R Gettysburg, Pa. 

Longsdorf, C. L., Biglerville, Pa. 

Lawver, Rufus W., Biglerville, Pa. 

Lawver, J. Edw Biglerville, Pa. 

Longsdorf. Dr. H. H., Dickinson, Pa. 

Lady, Hiram C, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Lupp, Reuben Biglerville, Pa. 

Lau. L. B East Berlin, R. F. D. No. 3, Pa. 

Large, Mrs. E. S Orrtanna, Pa. 

Large. Miss Katharine Orrtanna. Pa. 

Lewis, W. J Pittston, Pa. 

Lower, Dr. S. E., Pittsburgh, Pa. 



Michener. Mrs. Chas.^ 
Myers. George P., . , . 



Bendersville. Pa. 
Biglerville. Pa. 



JO 



CL It is not only the growing of 
the fruit that demands your atten- 
tion, but the manner in which it 
is packed as well. 



Corrugated Caps 




White Paper Caps 



Cushions 




E.P.REAO. 

199DUANESt.,NEWY0RK 

BRANCH ALBION. N.Y. 
MANUFACTURER AND 
DEALER IN SUPPLIES 
USED BY THE FRUIT 
GROWER AND SHIPPER 
FOR THE PICKING, 
PACKING AND PROTECTING 
OF HIS FRUIT. 



^Lac 



Lace 
Circles 



CLThe use of my goods at the 
time of packing increases the value 
of your fruit 10%. 



Send for booklet on Fruit Packing Supplies. 
It is FREE. 



II 



Mcllhenny, Wm. B., Gettysburg, Pa. 

McKay, Geo. H., Philadelphia, Pa. 

Mayer, Dr. I. H., Willow Street, Pa. 

Morrison, Mrs. W. S., Aspers, Pa. 

Miller, John H., Aspers, Pa. 

Minnich, D. N., Chambersburg, Pa. 

Minter, Thomas L Biglerville, Pa. 

Musselman, C. H Biglerville, Pa. 

Musselman, J. Elmer Gettysburg. Pa. 

Minter. Mrs. D. G Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Myers. Levi M Siddonsburg. Pa. 

Miller, Robt. C., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Miller, E. M., Hanover. Pa. 

Moyer, Dr. H. B., Cape May. N. J. 

Mickley, J. W., Fairfield, R. F. D., Pa. 

Mickley, I. D., Cashtown, Pa. 

Musser, Will M., Lampeter, Pa. 

Maloney. W. J Dansville. N. Y. 

McCormick, C. E Glenburn, Pa. 

Newcomer, Aaron Smithburg. Md. 

Naylor, H. A., \spers. Pa. 

Nissly. Christian L Plorin. Pa. 

Nisslv, Alvin R 558 Abbottst'n St.. Hanover, Pa. 



Oyler, Geo., Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Oyler, George C Gettysburg, R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Ogden, David. Aspers, Pa. 

Orner, P. S., Arendtsville, ?a. 

Prickett. Josiah W., Biglerville, Pa. 

Peters. Z. J., Guernsey, Pa. 

Peters. H. W., x^spers. Pa. 

Peters. W. R., Aspers, Pa. 

Peters. Geo. M., Aspers, Pa. 

Peters. Curtis. Biglerville, Pa. 

Peters. John N., Bendersville, Pa. 

Pitzer, Harry C, Aspers, Pa. 

Patterson, Jas. A., Stewartstown. Pa. 

Pratt. B. G., New York City. 

Raffensperger. Chas. E Arendtsville, Pa. 

Raf¥ensperger. Roy, Arendtsville, Pa. 

Raffensperger, Harry Arendtsville, Pa. 

Rice. E. E., Aspers. Pa. 

Rice. C. E., Biglerville. Pa. 

Rice. Waybright Biglerville, Pa. 

Rice, C. S., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Rice, Luther S Arendtsville, Pa. 



12 



What Does Your Spraying Cost? 



Spray Material is not the Greatest Cost 



€L Good labor is becoming more scarce and more expensive 
each year. 

CL Would you like to cut your labor bill in half, and insure 
better, cleaner trees and fruit ? Let us tell you how. 

d. One spray-tank full of "SCALECIDE" will spray as 
many trees as two spray-tanks full of Lime Sulfur, in each instance 
spraying until every twig is covered and the trees drip. 

C The N. Y. Experiment Station reports that 9 gallons of 
"SCALECIDE" spray has the same covering power as 17 gallons 
of Lime-Sulfur. We know of an orchard that required 25,000 
gallons of Lime-Sulfur in 1911 and was sprayed in 1912 with less 
than 11,000 gallons of "SCALECIDE" with better results. 
Don't say you don't believe it until you have made a fair and square 
test of it. 

€L Suppose that it takes 1-50 gallon barrel of "SCALECIDE" 
to spray your orchard — what will it cost What would it cost to 
do the same work v^^ith Lime-Sulfur 

1 barrel "SCALECIDE," making 800 gallons of spray 1 to 15, 
will cost delivered in Pennsylvania and vicinity - $25.00 
Cost of labor for applying at l^c per gallon - 12.00 

^37.00 

It will require 1500 gallons of Lime-Sulfur to spray the same or- 
chard, v^hich will require 3/3 barrels of the best commercial Lime- 
Sulfur 1 to 8, at $4.50 per barrel - - ^15.00 
Labor of applying 1500 gallons of spray at l>^c 
per gallon ----- 22.50 

;^37.50 

which demonstrates that if you pay over $4-. SO per barrel for Lime- 
Sulfur (you cannot make it at home for that), you are paying more 
than for "SCALECIDE" at;g25.00 per barrel. 

"Scalecide" Costs More by the Gallon, but Less by the Orchard 

C No spray is cheap that does not do the work. 

C The Missouri Experiment Station reports that "SCALECIDE" 
killed 100% of scale (by count) in five out of seven tests, while Lime-Sulfur 
failed to do so once in ten tests in the same orchard. 

C The finest and most productive orchards in the U. S. have never had 
Lime-Sulfur on them, but "SCALECIDE" has been used exclusively as a 
Winter wash since planting. We will take pleasure in referring- you to them. 

B. G. PRATT CO., 50 Church Street, New York City 
E. C. TYSON- --Pennsylvania Agent- --Flora Dale, Pa. 



Rice. Oscar C Arendtsville, Pa. 

Routzahn. George R Bendersville, Pa. 

Rinehart. E. S Mercersburg, Pa. 

Rinehart. J. J Smithburg, Md. 

Roberts. Arthur, Gettysburg. R. F. D. No. 5, Pa. 

Reist, Henry G 110 Avon Road, Schenectady, 

N. Y. 

Reist, EH G Mt. Joy, Pa. 

Repp, Albert T Glassboro, N. J. 

Riddlemoser. H. E McKnightstown, Pa. 

Roth, John Biglerville, Pa. 

Rice, Edwin A \rendtsville. Pa. 

Rex. Raymond Idaville, Pa. 

Rhoads, C. A., Friedens, Pa. 

Stover. Dr. J. G., Bendersville, Pa. 

Slaybaugh, E. B Aspers. Pa. 

Slaybaugh, Elmer, Aspers, Pa. 

Smith, G.' Frank, \spers, Pa. 

Smith, J. H., .Biglerville, Pa. 

Shank, George H., Biglerville. Pa. 

Sheely, Allen Bendersville. Pa. 

Sheely. Geo. D New Oxford, Pa. 

Shull, Jno. A Tillie. Pa. 

Shull, Robt. H Tillie, Pa. 

Stoner, C. A., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Schuchman, G. W., Carlisle, Pa. 

Spangler, George E Gettysburg, Pa. 

Snyder, E. B. Jack's Mountain, Pa. 

Snyder. Jacob S Idaville. R. F. D., Pa. 

Snyder, W. E Bendersville, Pa. 

Snyder, L. S York Springs. Pa. 

Starner, C. S., Aspers, Pa. 

Stitzel, J. A., Aspers. Pa. 

Stauffer, Chas. B Gettysburg, Pa. 

Sachs. Edw Biglerville, Pa. 

Stock, E. C 3610 Clifton Av. Balto. Md. 

Strasbaugh. E. F Orrtanna, Pa. 

Sheffer, E. Kate, Boiling Springs, Pa. 

Sheely. A. D Arendtsville, Pa. 

Smith, J. Russel, Swarthmore, Pa. 



Tyson, Edwin C, . 
Tyson, Mrs. M. W.. 
Tyson, Chester J., 
Tyson, Mrs. B. H., 
Tyson, Wm. C, . . 
Tyson, Mrs. M. E., 



Flora Dale, Pa. 
Flora Dale, Pa. 
Flora Dale, Pa. 
Aspers, Pa. 
Guernsey, Pa. 
Guernsey, Pa. 



14 



Feed the Tree! 



^ Dempwolf 's Spring Special Brand has proven highly 
effective as a Fertilizer for orchards. 



Analysis : 

Ammonia, - - 2% 



Available Phosphoric Acid, 7 % 



Potash (Soluble in water) , 1 0 % 



Formula : 

Ingredients Used for Ammonia: 

Nitrate of Soda. 
Ground Fish. 
Dried Ground Blood. 
High Grade Animal Tankage. 
Dempwolf's Special Ammonia and 
Phosphoric Acid Compound. 

Ingredients Used for Phosphoric 
Acid: 

Dissolved Phosphate. 
Ground Fish. 

High Grade Animal Tankage. 
Dempwolf's Special Ammonia and 
Phosphoric Acid Compound. 

Ingredients Used for Potash: 
Muriate of Potash. 



Ask your Local Jlgent for this Brand, or write direct to 

York Chemical Works 

YORK, PENNA. 



15 

Tyson, A. R Norristown, Pa. 

Taylor, Hanson W., Biglerville, Pa. 

Taylor, Henry, Biglerville, Pa. 

Trostle, Francis, York Springs. R. F. D., 

Thomas, Mrs. Dr., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Taughinbaugh, J. L., Hunterstown, Pa. 

Ullrich. L. L., Biglerville, Pa. 

Weidner, A. I, Arendtsville, Pa, 

Wolfe, C. A., Aspers, Pa. 

Wolfe, Harry Aspers, Pa. 

Wolf, Dr. W. E., Arendtsville, Pa. 

Wolf, Charles M., York Springs. Pa 

Weaver, Mrs. C. M., New Oxford, Pa. 

Weaver, David, Biglerville, Pa. 

Wilson, B. F., Biglerville, Pa. 

Weaner, Chas. C, Bendersville, Pa. 

Weaner, W. C, » . . Aspers, Pa. 

Wertz, D. M., Ouincy, Pa. 

Wible, R. E., h Gettysburg, Pa. 

Wickersham, Ruth A., Bendersville, Pa. 

Wickersham, Robt. A., Bendersville, Pa. 

Wagner, Harry, Carlisle, Pa. 

Wright, Ryland Aspers, Pa. 

Wright, T. F., \spers, Pa. 

Williams, J. L., Gettysburg, Pa. 

Weigle, H. M., ^irrisburg. Pa. 

Walter, J. C Biglersville, Pa. 



i6 



( '1 



Why Not Get the BEST 
Spray Pump ? 

Why try to do good spraying — thorough 
spraying — the onh' kind worth while — with 
cheap tools ? Don"t waste j'our money and 



'rx 



m 



GOULDS I 



time on a cheap spray pump — get a 

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Reliable SPRAYER 

Coulds Sprayers are designed and built 
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resist the action of spray chemicals — one 
reason they last. You can choose from 
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quirement. 

The entire line is 
fully described and 
illustrated in our 
booklet, 

"How to Spray, 
When to Spray, 
Which Sprayer 
to Use" 

Send for this 
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spray work. 

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"Largest Manufacturers r/ 
Pumps for Every Service" 

130 West Fall Street 
Seoeca Falls, New York 



1/ 



CONbTITUTION 

Preamble. 

Being interested in fruit growing and believing that, by organization, we 
may materially advance our common interests, we hereby adopt the following 
Constitution and By- Laws. 

Article I. — Name. 

This Association shall be known as The Fruit Growers' Association of 
Adams County. 

Article 11. — Object. 

The object of this Association shall be to encourage the co-operation 
of the fruit growers of Adams County for the protection and advancement 
of their common interests. 

1st. By securing and disseminating such scientific and practical informa- 
tion as shall promote tlie general advancement of the fruit growing interests 
in this county, and shall tend to the improvement of the quality and 
quantity of our products. 

2d. By securing such legislation as may be advantageous, and prevent- 
ing that which may be detrimental. 

3d. By securing such improved facilities in transportation as shall tend 
to give us more expeditious and economical distribution. 

4th. By endeavoring to secure a better and more uniform system of 
packing and package. 

5th. By devising some system of marketing our products which will 
open up and dcA clop the markets and give to the grower a fair and remunera- 
tive return. 

6th. And by endeavoring to obtain such improved systems of crop re- 
porting as shall furnish, through co-operation with other similar Associa- 
tions, accurate information concerning production; thereby enabling the 
fruit grower to know the exact situation. 

Article III. — M eiiibership. 

1st. Candidates for membership may be elected by a majority vote of 
the members present, and upon the payment of $1.00 into the treasury shall 
be entitled to membership until the next Annual Meeting. 

2d. Any member may renew his membership by the payment of annual 
dues, but upon failure to pay dues within three months after Annual Meet- 
ing, shall require re-election. 

3d. No member shall receive the benefit of commissions or of co- 
operative buying by the Association, to an amount greater than $1.00 for the 
term of one year after election to membership. 

Article IV. — Dues. 

The annual dues of this Association shall be One Dollar, ($1.00) pay- 
able to the treasurer at the meeting immediately preceding the annual meet- 
ing, for which the Treasurer shall issue a receipt, this receipt to constitute 
a certificate of membership for the succeeding year. 

Article V. — Officers. 

Its officers shall consist of a President, a First, Second, Third, Fourth 
and Fifth Vice President, a Recording Secretary, a Corresponding Secre- 
tary, and a Treasurer, all of whom shall be elected by ballot at each An- 
nual Meeting, to serve for the term of one year 01 until their successors 
shall be chosen. These nine (9) elective officers shall constitute an Execu- 
tive Committee. 



i8 



MAY THE 

NEW YEAR 

BRING 



A BUMPER 
APPLE CROP 



MUSSELMAN 
CANNING 
COMPANY 

BIGLERVILLE. PA. 



19 



Article VI. — Qiioniin. 

Five (5) members shall constitute a quormn for the transaction of 
business. 

Article VII. — Amendments. 

The Constitution and By-Laws of this Association may be amended at 
any regular meeting by a two-thirds vote of the members present, a notice 
of the proposed amendment having been presented in writing at a previous 
regular meeting. 

Article Vlll— Fruit Districts. 

For the purpose of distributing the work of the Association and ex- 
tending its scope, the County of Adams shall be divided into the follow- 
ing seven (7) districts : District One, or North District, to consist of 
Menallen Township ; District Two, or West District, to consist of Franklin 
Township; District Three, or Southwestern District, to consist of Highland, 
Liberty and Hamiltonban Townships ; District Four, or South District, to 
consist of Cumberland, Freedom and Mt. Joy Townships, and that portion 
of Straban Township lying south of the Western Maryland Railroad; Dis- 
trict Five, or Eastern District, to consist of Germany, Union, Conowaga, 
Mt. Pleasant. Oxford, Reading, Berwick and Hamilton Townships ; Dis- 
trict Six, or Northeastern District, to consist of Latimore, Huntingdon and 
Tyrone Townships ; District Seven, or Central District, to consist of Butler 
Township and that portion of Straban Township lying north of the West- 
ern Maryland Railroad. 

Article IX. — Committees. 

The following five (5) committees shall be appointed annually by the 
newly-elected Executive Committee and announced at the January meeting, 
as follows : A committee on programs, a committee on membership, a 
committee on statistics, a committee on exhibits and a committee on crop 
reports ; each committee shall be composed of one or two members from 
each of the seven (7) districts of Adams County, as designated in Art. 8. 
and one or two from each of the Counties of York, Cumberland and 
Franklin. 

BYLAWS 

Article I. — Duties of President. 

The President shall preside at all meetings of the Association and have 
a general supervision of its affairs. 

Article II. — Duties of Vice Presidents. 

The highest designated Vice President present at any meeting shall 
preside in the absence of the President ; all of the five vice presidents shall 
serve on the Executive Committee in conjunction with the other elective 
officers ; and, in addition, each vice president shall have special duties as 
follows : 

The First Vice President shall be chairman of the program committee, 
and be responsible for the preparation of a program for each regular meet- 
ing, same to be announced at the preceding meeting. 

The Second Vice President shall be chairman of the membership com- 
mittee, and shall use every effort, personally and through members of his 
committee, to extend the membership and secure renewals. 

The Third Vice President shall be chairman of the committee on sta- 
tistics, and shall be responsible for the preparation of statistics showing 
number of orchards in Adams County, and, as far as possible, in York, 
Cumberland and Franklin Counties, with quantity, age, kind and variety of 
trees planted therein, for the use of the Association, adding thereto as 
new orchards are planted or old ones extended. 



20 



Ifi No Change in Name, Location if; 

^ or Bank Since 1852 ^ 

!fi ifi 
tfi — — ffi 

ifi ifi 

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^ C. H. Evans, Vice Pres. ^ 

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21 



The Fourth \'ice President shall be chairman of the committee on ex- 
hibits, and have entire charge of securing fruit for exhibits and displaying 
same as directed by the Association. 

The Fifth \'ice President shall be chairman of the committee on crop 
reports, and have entire charge of collecting and compiling same for use 
of the Association. 

Article III. — Duties of Recording Secretary. 

The Recording Secretary shall write the minutes of the meetings of the 
Association and have charge of its Records and Reports. 

Article 1\ . — Duties of Corresponding Secretary. 

The Corresponding Secretary shall conduct the correspondence of the 
Association and shall receive for so doing his necessar}' expenses for sta- 
tionery, postage, etc. He shall also act as Recording Secretary in the ab- 
sence of that officer. 

Article — Duties of Treasurer. 

The Treasurer shall receive and keep an accurate account of all moneys 
belonging to the Association, paying out same on an order of the Association, 
signed by the President. He shall make a report of all receipts and disburse- 
ments at the annual meeting or at any time at the request of the Associa- 
tion. He shall mail a notice of dues to all members one week prior to the 
Xovember meeting, at which time all dues are payable, and shall issue cer- 
tificates of membership in exchange for all dues received. He shall also 
keep a roll of members who have complied with Article I\' of the Con- 
stitution and embody same in his annual report. 

Article A'I. — Duties of the Executive Committee. 

The Executive Committee shall have general supervision of the affairs 
of the Association, auditing all bills and accounts and carrying out the pur- 
poses of the Association. 

Article VH. — Meetings. 

There shall be a regular meeting of the Association on the second Satur- 
day of each month at 7 : 30 p. m., unless otherwise ordered. The meeting 
held in December to be regarded as the Annual Meeting. Special meetings 
may be convened by the Executive Committee at such time as they may ap- 
point. 

Article A'HI. — Initiation of Officers. 

All new officers shall assume the duties of office at the opening of the 
meeting immediately following the one at which they were elected, except 
that the newly-elected Executive Committee shall prepare and announce, at 
the January meeting, the membership roll of the five (5) committees speci- 
fied in Art. 9. and the chairman of program committee shall prepare a pro- 
gram for the February meeting and announce same at the January meeting. 

Article IX.— Order of Business. 

1st. Reading of minutes of previous meeting. 

2d. Nominations and elections. 

3d. Reports of committees. 

4th. Deferred business. 

5th. Communications. 

6th. New business. 

7th. Discussion of questions. 



22 

HOW ABOUT IT ? 



<L Is your SPRAYER unreliable — does it break down 
when you need it most ? 

C Are you always repairing or replacing small parts ? 

CL Does your engine refuse to start? 

C Is your spray fine and penetrating — your agitation perfect } 

a In short are you PERFECTLY SATISFIED with 
your Sprayer ? 

IF NOT— Investigate the 

AIR-TIGHT SPRAYER 




200 GALLON SPRAYER— ONE MAN AT TREE BEHIND 



23 



SIMPLE— ISN'T IT? 




Complete Power Plant 



AIR TIGHT SPRAYER 

C Only SEVEN moving parts. 

A thousand L.ESS parts than the average Sprayer. 
C AH steel construction. 

C Two-cycle air cooled engine, develops TWICE the power 
required. 

C» Write for descriptive catalogue. 

AiR-TiGHT Steel Tank Company 

PITTSBURGH, PA. 



E. C. TYSON, Gen'l Agt„ FLORA DALE, PA. 



24 



"Keystone Farm Right" 
Dynamite 

Should be used by 

PROGRESSIVE ORCHARDISTS 

It advances tree growth from one to two years, 
over old planting methods. 

Mellows the Soil. 
Destroys Harmful Insect Life. 
Conserves Moisture Over Drouth Periods. 
Loosens up Soil Around Old Trees, afford- 
ing greater root expansion, thus bringing 
orchard back to normal bearing. 

"Keystone Farm Right" Dynamite 

is valuable in Removing Stumps and 
Boulders, Breaking up Hardpan and 
Subsoil, Digging Post Holes and Ditches, 
Draining Wet and Marshy Land. 

Write for Illustrated Booklet, "Farming with Dynamite'* 

Keystone National Powder Co. 

EMPORIUM, PA. 

SOLD IN ADAMS COUNTY BY 

Lower Bros. R. L. Nesbit & Co. Basehoar & Mehring 

Table Rock Dillsburg Littlestown 



PROCEEDINGS 

OF THE 

EIGHTH ANNUAL CONVENTION 

OF THE 

FRUIT GROWERS ASSOCIATION 

OF 

ADAMS COUNTY, PA. 



The Eighth Annual Convention was called to order by the 
President, Robert M. Eldon, at 2:00 p. m., Wednesday, December 
18, 1912, in Fruit Growers' Hall, Bendersville, Pa, 

The convention was opened with prayer by the Rev. D. T. 
Koser. 



Following a few well chosen words of welcome by the Presi- 
dent, the program was proceeded with as follows : 



PEACHES. 



Prof. F. N. Fagan, Ass't Professor of Horticulture, Pennsylvania 

State College. 



I wish to sound a warning note, not that I believe it myself, but 
the press and public at large are inclined to believe it — that is that 
there is, or rather might be an over production of apples. We read 
nearly every day of some large planting of this fruit and the talk 
is that when all their young trees come into bearing, the ones just 
planted and the ones that have been planted within the past five or 
ten years, that there will not be enough people in the United States 
to use the fruit. That may hold good if people believe their own 
township is the whole United States, but the facts are that many 
families of ordinary means, in our large cities, cannot afford apples 
at the prices they must pay each year to get them. So please under- 
stand that I do not take much stock in the over production idea of 
the apple. But I do know there is, on an average, an under pro- 



25 



26 



duction of peaches. In many localities, we find not enough produc- 
tion of this good fruit to supply the wants of the usual housewife, 
not to mention the wants of the village, borough, town and city. I 
believe I know what some of you are thinking, — "We haven't the 
soil or location to produce peaches." Am I right. Again, you may 
say we will let Michigan, West York State, Northeast Pennsylvania 
and Northern Ohio ship us our late peaches for canning and the 
South Atlantic States and South Central Mississippi valley ship 
us our early dessert peaches. Well, let the above sections ship us 
their products and still you will not have enough. You can compete 
with them and to confirm this statement, talk with your local 
dealers and grocerymen, and see if they don't tell you that home 
grown peaches will bring a better price and also that they would 
rather handle them. 

Now, as to soil for peaches, we have been taught that peaches 
were very exacting as to soils. This teaching is all right but I am of 
the opinion that it has been carried to the extreme. The very habit 
and nature of the peach root tends to teach the above. Peach 
roots are very fibrous, the fibrous roots being more abundant than 
the stocky heavy ones, indicating as we study tree roots, that the 
peach prefers a loose soil, and popular opinion has tied this fact to 
a light, sandy soil. When I speak of light soil, I mean light soil 
as we speak of it on the farm. As a matter of fact, our loams and 
clayey loams and even clays can be made very light to handle and al- 
so pliable, if we install an abundance of organic matter into it, and on 
such soils the roots of the peach will be able to develop and obtain 
plant food, and grow. If one has a clay or loam (a heavy soil) and 
should desire to grow peaches on it, he should work it welf, add 
manure, and plow under some form of green manuring crops be- 
fore planting the peaches. Do this before you plant, because it may 
take you two, three or even four years to fit such soil for peaches. 
Remember the presence of plenty of organic matter is of great Im- 
portance. 

Now, for the exact location for this planting. I learn that in 
the mountainous sections of southern Pennsylvania, and eastern and 
central Pennsylvania, that late spring frosts occur very seldom, pro- 
vided the elevation is above the surrounding neighborhood. This 
item is as important as organic matter to the soil. Have good air 
drainage to protect your trees from spring frosts. It is late spring 
frost that gets the peach crop more than the low temperature in the 
dormant season. Peaches have stood a 17 degree below zero tem- 
perature without injuring the buds. A tree must be dormant and 
should have hardened its wood well and in good season to stand such 
temperatures. Nevertheless, they have stood it and will stand it 
again too. 

The stock you plant, in a general way regardless of variety, I 
will say should be one year old budded stocks, from a nursery com- 
pany that will be glad to have you visit their blocks of trees, and 
select at digging time the stock you want. You may have to pay a 



27 



little extra for this stock, but remember, the first cost is the best 
money you will ever spend. Get good trees that have made enough 
growth in one season to convince you that these trees have estab- 
lished themselves well upon their own roots. Don't select the largest 
tree, not the smallest, but the average sized one. Let us say about 
one-half to five-eighth inch trees. And in regard to this nursery 
tree, insist that the tree is allowed to ripen its wood well. 

Planting time I believe should be in the spring before the 
growth starts in nature around us ; use nature as a guide. The 
tree roots should be pruned to the extent that all broken and 
mashed or dried-out roots are not put into the ground. Very often 
together with the pruning, that lifting the tree from the nursery 
does, and the pruning away of injured roots, one will find that 
most of the fibrous roots that you were so proud of when you 
saw the tree lifted, will have disappeared. Don't discard it, for the 
tree will come along all right. Plant the tree in the ground about 
the depth or a little lower than it stood in the nursery, which will 
be indicated by the different color of the bark above the ground and 
that below. In setting the tree, firm the soil well around the roots 
— get down on all fours if necessary and firm the soil, by hand, 
allowing no air pockets to form under the roots. And don't be all 
day at this planting job either. Roots are not meant to be ex- 
posed to sunlight and air, so don't try to start something new with 
nature. She will not stand for such tricks of mankind. 

Now, as to planting distances, I have noted that at bearing age 
the trees fill up the surface of an acre very completely when planted 
twenty feet each way, which will give about one hundred and 
twenty-four trees per acre, or planted on the corners of a twenty 
foot square, which will give you one hundred and eight trees to the 
acre. 

The pruning of the young peach is very important and should 
be done at once after planting in the Spring. If the young tree is 
not too large and has not branched too much, the cutting back to a 
wisp or single stock, will be about right, since you take away with 
this cutting all possible chance of the skeleton branches or head 
of the tree from coming out any higher than this cut which gen- 
erally is made about eighteen inches to two feet above the surface 
of the ground. Some cutting-back or pruning is necessary to even 
up the unbalanced condition of the tree-top with its root system, 
which has been badly disturbed by the loss of roots in the process 
of lifting, and then the root pruning. Remember right here that 
nature balanced the roots with tree tops, and we cannot unbalance 
nature without something unusual following. In this pruning, plant 
both feet solid on two sides of the tree so your weight will help 
hold the tree solid in the ground and make your cuts clean with 
a good sharp big handled knife. If the tree is large and has made 
some branch growth below the two foot height save them, at least, 
the ones you want and cut back the branches to about half their 
length and to an outside bud. Remember, in selecting skeleton 



28 



branches to keep them far enough apart (three to four branches are 
enough) and keep them as far apart as you possibly can, and at the 
same time, pointing out into the space you expect to have filled with 
tops and peaches, later on. During the next two years practice 
cutting back each skeleton branch in early spring while the tree 
is still dormant, to the extent of taking out a third or even a half 
of the growth the tree made the season before. Some think this 
practice retards bearing, but while there are some experiments, 
I believe being conducted aiming at this point I am unable to say 
what such pruning will do, other than to cause good stocky skele- 
ton branches to develop with good diameter and strength enough 
to hold up the future crops of fruit. I cannot help but believe, 
when I see such methods followed, producing good strong branches, 
and at the same time bearing as much fruit as a small tree three 
years old can stand under, that it is not such a bad practice after 
all. If that sounds too "fairy-like", I will add two more years and 
say that under such methods of pruning (and by the way, with no 
better location and soil than thousands of Pennsylvania farms have) 
one grower cleared a little over, as he said, "$5,000.00 off of three 
thousand trees, five years old." Not so bad when we consider that 
at the age of three or four years, combined, the same trees had 
paid for the thirty acres, and their own expenses, besides. 

As to culture, in brief, I'll say cultivate the peach orchard, not 
just once, but cultivate it as a garden and use some form of cover 
crop to protect the soil and tree roots in the winter. I am beginning 
to believe that deep freezing of the soil is as injurious to the tree 
and future crops as is late frost injury to the bud and currant 
crop. The cover crop will also give us a chance to return to the 
soil some organic and humus material. The cover crop may be a 
non legume, such as barley, even rye or a good crop of weeds. It 
might also be a legume if one believed that the trees were not re- 
ceiving enough nitrogen. I do know of clover being used between 
every other row in the orchard and allowed to stand two years 
while the alternate rows were cultivated two years. 

This subject brings up the question of adding plant food to the 
peach orchard. The addition of plant food to ordinary every-day 
farm crops is very common, but some how or other, a large number 
of people believed trees would do all right without plant food and 
were not demanding food as other crops. I wish, here, to use the 
idea of Professor Green of Wooster, Ohio, Experiment Station, 
in one of his reports on the peach section of Ohio. 

"The grape industry having failed, for no other apparent 
reason than the lack of plant food to keep the vines alive, grape 
vines were taken out and immediately replaced by peach trees. 
During all this time, continued cultivation was given the land 
without the addition of any form of organic matter. Large crops 
of peaches were harvested and the trees began to decline the same 
as did the grapes. During all these years, no plant food had ever 
been returned to the soil and by the help of the Experiment Sta- 



29 



tion, the growers began to realize they would have to add some food 
to the soil or go out of business. So they began adding manure, 
cover crops and commercial fertilizers and under such treatment, 
the trees gradually regained their strength and today, it is a highly 
specialized peach section." 

I do not wish to go into the varieties of peaches or the details 
of spraying. This information can be had in bulletin form from 
our different State Experiment Stations. I do wish to bring out 
the point that we should not allow our trees to bear more than they 
can hold up nicely. In other words, use no props but practice 
thinning. When the peaches are about the size of blue damson 
plums, thin them down to about five or six inches apart on the 
branch. This practice will pay you big. If you are skeptical, try 
this on a few trees this coming season. 



Discussion. 



Mr. Bassett. How about diseases? 

Prof. Fagan. I have said nothing in regard to disease and 
disease control, but I want to name the diseases that are apt to 
be troublesome. In the first place, if peach yellows has entered 
into your orchard, it will need close attention. Another disease 
that you will have to fight will be peach leaf curl. Another dis- 
ease that you are apt to find in nursery stock is crown gall. If you 
find crown gall in peach trees, do not plant them, for the simple 
reason that they will never amount to very much. Some nursery- 
men say that it will not hurt peaches or apples. 

R. A. Wickersham. Do any nurseries have crown gall in 
peach trees? 

Prof. Fagan. Yes, lots of them. 

R. A. Wickersham. Where? 

Prof. Fagan. All through Ohio there is lots of crown gall on 
peaches. Crown gall on the peach does not look quite like it does 
on the apple. It is not the white slimy knot that is often present at 
the union of two roots. 

R. A. Wickersham. Is crown gall found in any other states? 

Prof. Fagan. I have thrown out crown gall trees from ad- 
joining states. Ohio has it. West Virginia has it, Virginia has it, 
Indiana has it, Michigan has it, and Pennsylvana will have it. If 
you buy nursery stock infected with crown gall, do not accept it. 
I would not plant it. 

Mr. Bassett. How about "Little Peach"? 

Prof. Fagan. "Little Peach" is a disease that will play havoc 
if it enters. I understand that there is some little peach in Pennsyl- 
vania. Little peach and peach yellows are diseases that we do not 
know much about. A man that will find an absolute cure for 
peach yellows other than cutting down the tree, would make an 
immense fortune. The fact that yellows will destroy your trees 



30 



means that you must give them accurate care when the yellows 
shows up. It is improperly named. The first conditions do not 
show up in any form of a yellow tint, it shows up in the premature 
ripening of the fruit. It may show up on one limb. If it ripens 
its fruit in that way, take your knife and cut across the cheek 
and if you see a streaking of red across the peach, taste that peach 
and you will think it is the worst peach you ever tasted. And if 
you do find such things, then look at the root. If you do not find 
borers there, then examine the bark and see if there are any bark 
beetles feeding on the bark, if it is not so infested, do away with 
it. The best thing you can do is to cut that tree out and burn it, 
even though it has a nice crop of peaches on it. I will just tell 
you what two men I know of have done. There used to be quite 
a peach section in Columbiana County, O. It was noted for 
peaches. The yellows entered there and the advice that some of the 
experienced fruit people in counties further east gave was that 
whenever you see such signs, cut out the trees and burn them. 
That was two years ago. One man has followed the practice of 
cutting out every tree that showed any signs of yellows, and the 
following year, after he had taken out the stump and hauled in 
some fresh ground, he planted another peach tree, and at the 
present time that orchard looks as good as any peach orchard that 
you will see. 

On one side of the fence is a perfectly healthy, normal peach 
orchard. On the other side of the fence is an orchard almost 
ruined with the yellows. The only way you can account for it 
is that the one man has cut out the trees as the yellows appeared, 
taking out the stump and planting another tree, and the other man 
neglected it. 

R. A. Wickersham. Is there any certainty that the cutting 
out does any good ? 

Prof. Fagan. There is absolutely no certainty at all, but cut- 
ting out will check the disease. 

Question. How about crimson clover as a cover crop? 

Prof. Fagan. Crimson clover lends a good deal of nitrogen 
and I see no objection to using it. Here in Pennsylvania it might 
add too much nitrogen for you. 

R. M. Eldon. How about early Spring cultivation? Could 
that clover be destroyed without plowing it ? 

Prof. Fagan. Crimson clover would be pretty hard to destroy 
without plowing. You might destroy it by plowing it with a heavy 
disc. 

Question. Do you think producing too much nitrogen in the 
soil would be apt to produce yellows? 

Prof. Fagan. You can unbalance a tree just as readily with 
plant food as you can unbalance a steer in the feeding proposition, 
and you might get too much nitrogen. I do not think so, however. 



31 



Question. In the way of commercial fertilizers to feed the 
orchard, what would you use? What kinds, in what proportion 
and how much? 

Prof. Fagan. I believe you have Prof. Stewart on the pro- 
gram, and as he has been working among fertilizers, perhaps he 
will answer that question. Phosphoric acid i6% pure is all right. 
I would add actual nitrate of soda to the peach orchard somewhere 
around 15 lbs. Not over that. 

W. E. Grove. Do you think it practicable to do all your 
shipping by express ? 

Prof. Fagan. It is according to how much the basket is going 
to cost you to get it into the market. It would probably be 12 cts. 
to 20 cts. per basket. If 12 cts. I would say that you would make 
money at that. 

Mr. Newcomer. Do the little hair-like roots on peach trees 
indicate crown gall? 

Prof. Fagan. Not at all. The hair-like roots on peach trees 
are no indication of crown gall. When you get peach trees some 
varieties are that way and others have nice, large roots, but some 
varieties have too many of those fine, fibrous roots. 

Question. Do you object to that kind, or do you prefer it 
to others that are a little larger ? 

Prof. Fagan. Not at all. We would trim off the other roots 
to a few straight roots, and then plant them. Those small roots will 
die anyway when they are put in the ground. 

Question. Professor, do you think extreme cold winters and 
extremely hot summers have anything to do with bringing on peach 
yellows ? 

Prof. Fagan. No, I do not think it has anything to do with it. 
A weakened condition of the tree subjects it to any form of insect 
injury or disease injury. That is the only way that a hard winter 
or a hot summer would have any effect on the presence of such 
diseases. 

We generally believed that peach trees were short-lived. Some 
of them will live to be 25 or 30 years old and still are good. We 
do not care how old a tree is, so that it brings in the peaches, that 
is what we are looking for. 

Question No. 14. Wanted — Experience of a fruit grower 
who has used barnyard manure freely on peaches? 

Prof. Fagan. I have known of barnyard manure being used 
to good advantage in the bearing peach orchard. A winter dressing 
of about five tons to the acre annually has been followed by con- 
secutive crops of peaches and I believe it to be a good thing. 

Question No. 15. How can we prevent rot of peaches? 

Prof. Fagan. You can prevent rot in peaches, first by good 
pruning, getting all the benefit from sunlight possible. Th;en 
spray with self-boiled lime sulphur. (See Pennsylvania Experi- 
ment Station bulletin, entitled "Peaches for Pennsylvania", by 



32 



Jno. P. Stewart, or U. S. Department of Agriculture, Farmer's 
Bulletin No. 440). 

Question No. 16. Will it pay to use orchard heaters in this 
county ? 

Prof. Fagan. I am unable to say whether it will pay to use 
orchard heaters in Adams County or not. All I can say is to 
experiment if you have losses in crops coming from late spring 
frosts. 

Question No. 17. Does it impair vitality of young peach trees 
to store in cellar over winter ? 

Prof. Fagan. It does not injure the vitality of young peach 
trees to store them in a good cellar over winter. 

Question No. 19. Does any grower with personal experience 
favor planting peach fillers in apple orchard? 

Prof. Fagan. I have seen successful crops of peaches for a 
few years, as fillers in the apple orchard. If a man has the nerve 
to cut out the filler at the proper time, he will have received 
something from the orchard in advance of the apple crop. If 
soil conditions are all right for peaches, I say grow them in the 
apple orchard. 



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FREDONIA, N. Y. 



ESSENTIALS IN SPRAYING. 



(C. E. Bassett, Fennville, Michigan.) 



In the first place, the mixing station deserves considerable more 
attention than most fruit growers give it. If this is not complete 
and convenient in arrangement, valuable time is lost, the spray may 
not be mixed properly and various other difficulties arise. I think 
one of the best mixing stations I ever saw was designed to make 
Bordeaux for a fifty-five acre vineyard of grapes. A storage tank 
that held thirty-four barrels was mounted upon a tower eight feet 
high. A gasoline engine in a little shanty beneath the tank filled 
it with water. A well built platform upon which were placed the 
stock solution barrels was about six feet above the ground and 
five feet below the bottom of the storage tank. A two inch hose 
was used to transfer the water from the storage tank to the two 
dilution barrels. Each of these had a one and one-half inch faucet 
or valve which were caused to empty at the same time into a trough 
which, in turn, emptied into the strainer, placed in a hole in the top 
of the spray tank. While the dilute copper sulphate and dilute 
lime were passing down the trough, the poison was poured in. 

To my mind, a better arrangement could not possibly be made. 
With stock solutions of both lime and vitrol handy, and with the 
poison within easy reach, the owner could prepare and load one 
hundred gallons of Bordeaux in eight minutes. The only change 
necessary to adapt this to any sized sprayer would be to change the 
size of the dilution tanks. In all cases the dilution tanks should 
have a capacity of, at least, one-half of the spraying tank. For 
larger orchards perhaps a fifty barrel storage tank would be better, 
especially if you depend upon a windmill for pumping water. 

If you make lime and sulphur, this arrangement can be modi- 
fied so that the boiler which furnishes the steam for boiling the 
mixture can pump the water into the storage tank. The steam can 
also be used to dissolve the vitrol, if you prefer to do that way 
rather than keep a stock solution. I have seen sixteen pounds of 
vitrol dissolved by steam in three minutes. 

The gasoline engine has been so much improved of late, is 
so inexpensive to operate, and requires so little attention, that its 
use as a power in spraying is greatly increasing. The horizontal air 
cooled engine is preferred by most orchardists as it is considerably 
lighter than the water cooled engine, because it dispenses with the 
cooling tank. Which ever style, — air cooled or water cooled engine 
is used, I think it is best to have from two to two and one-half 
horse power. A less powerful engine is more apt to be overloaded, 
will not do as good work or last so long, and cannot be adapted 



33 



34 



to so many other uses about the farm. The engine should be able to 
produce and maintain a pressure of, at least, one hundred seventy- 
five pounds, and it would be better to have it two hundred pounds. 
Especially when you are spraying apples just after blooming time 
and it is necessary to do a thorough job to control codling moth 
and scab. 

The difficulties that arise in the use of the gasoline engine are 
usually due to weak batteries or gummed up sparking plugs, to the 
presence of water or dirt in the gasoline, or to an improper propor- 
tion of air and gas. These parts should be frequently examined 
and kept in good condition. 

Just what is the best method of coupling up the pump and 
engine, whether by belt drive or piston drive, is a question in my 
mind. However, I cannot see any special advantage of either way 
over the other. Most all power outfits should be provided with a re- 
lief valve for the return to the tank of some of the liquid when the 
pressure becomes too high. Manufacturers now make these so 
that iron or steel seats and springs can be put in when spraying 
with lime and sulphur. One firm has the spring on the outside, so 
that the spray mixture cannot injure it. 

The nozzle that seems to give the greatest satisfaction for 
general use in orchards, both for lime and sulphur and Bordeaux, 
is the nozzle known as the "Friend Type." It has a large capacity, 
makes a fine spray and carries a considerable distance. Nearly all 
firms have a nozzle of this type. The angle nozzle is very handy; 
by its use the operator can throw the spray in several different 
directions by simply turning the extension rod. Any nozzle can be 
made into an angle nozzle by the use of an elbow of thirty to forty 
degrees. 

The bamboo extension rod is to be preferred to the iron gas 
pipe kind, as they are lighter and not so tiresome to handle. Other 
accessories, that all well equipped orchard sprayers include, are 
leather, or rubber drip guards on the extension rods, a good stop 
cock, and plenty of good three or four ply hose, one-half inch in 
diameter. 

The tower: Every spraying outfit for orchard or park use 
should be equipped with a tower. This is especially desirable with 
large apple and pear trees. Without it one cannot possibly do a 
thorough job. In spraying for the scale, if every spot on each 
little twig is not covered with lime and sulphur, or other spray 
used, a few of them will be left to multiply and re-infect the tree 
and fruit. They seem to have wonderful enduring and reproduc- 
tive qualities. Also in spraying for the first brood of codling moth 
and for the scab, up-to-date growers now consider it an essential 
to get up so that the spray will be deposited in and about every 
little calyx cup. That is where most all of the early injury is done 
to the apple. In the pear, the scab does not seem to be so par- 
ticular as to the point of attack. 



35 



Towers should be about six or eight feet above the bed of the 
wagon. If you can not reach the top of any apple tree you have 
with such a tower, I advise you to cut off the tree severely. I 
have seen several instances where such a procedure has given ex- 
cellent results. 

The agitator: I want to say just a word about agitators. No 
one longer uses the jet agitator in which a portion of the spray 
stream returns to the tank, except in outfits having an abundance 
of power. We need all the power we can get to keep up the pres- 
sure in the nozzle, and besides, they do not give satisfactory agi- 
tation; nor do the bulk-heads in the horizontal half round tanks 
give the agitation desired for there is not enough movement to the 
wagon or cart. There are too many hand mechanical agitators 
in use. They require too much attention which should be given to 
the spray rod. Some form of automatic mechanical agitator is de- 
cidedly better. These may receive their power from a sprocket 
wheel fastened to a wheel of the wagon, or from an eccentric on 
a movable axle, or from the engine shaft. They are made to pro- 
duce various different movements, but I believe that the propeller 
type excels them all. In this, a shaft runs lengthwise and near the 
bottom of the tank; upon this are fastened propellers or paddles. 
The shaft revolves and gives the spray liquid a rotary and upward 
motion and produces ideal agitation. Properly made, strained and 
agitated spray liquids should leave only a very small amount of 
sediment in the tank. 

Another point, that should be mentioned that contributes consid- 
erably to the facility of spraying, is the cleaning of the spray tank, 
hose and nozzles with clear water after each day's work to remove 
all sediment that may have collected. A large amount of the clog- 
ging of valves and nozzles can be attributed to the failure to do this. 
By all means, thoroughly clean out every barrel, tank, valve, or 
other part of your spraying equipment at the end of the season. 
Oil the working parts well and put them in a clean place, then when 
the spraying season opens the next year, everything is ready for 
business, and no valuable time is lost in scraping, washing, "cuss- 
ing and discussing." 

In conclusion, let me emphasize the necessity of keeping the 
plungers, couplings, the stop cock, and nozzles all well packed so 
they will not leak and deluge you as well as the tree. Careful at- 
tention given to many of these details saves time and material, 
makes the sprayer more efficient, takes away a large part of the dis- 
agreeableness of spraying and makes it, as I have heard many 
say, a joy and pleasure, especially when the crop is harvested in 
the fall. 



DUTIES OF CITIZENSHIP. 



Mr. H. W. C01.1.INGWOOD, Editor ''The Rural New-Yorker.' 
(''The Hope Farm Man/') 



I assume that it is the highest national ambition of every one 
here that this country may remain a republic, in fact as well as 
in name, but if this government is to remain a republic, two things 
must be understood. There must ever be a class of free men so 
situated in life that they can and will do independent and fearless 
thinking and acting. Without such a class a republic is impossible. 
We cannot have such a class unless we can in some way keep alive 
the small, independent freeholder of land — the farmer. Thip 
farmer cannot, and will not exercise his independent and fearless 
freedom unless he can feel that his business is profitable and has 
something of the poetry or sentiment of life in it. I wish to build 
my argument on these propositions. Frankly, I do not see how 
the republic can endure when our business and our liberties pass 
into the hands of great corporations, and vast owners of land and 
property through their political agents. The hope for it lies in 
maintaining the home of the smaller freeholder. 

At the top of a hill in a New England country town lies the 
village burying ground. It is a bleak and lonely place, yet an 
honored and hallowed spot. In that graveyard stands a granite 
stone with this inscription: 

JACOB MILLER. 
God gave him new life, therefore we have brought him home. 

That man was the village pauper; the one lazy, shiftless 
wretch who would not work. If you know anything of the New 
England people and their character, you will understand how they 
despised a pauper, and hallowed their dead. A prince could hardly 
have won a place to lie beside them in their graveyard except 
through some great moral sacrifice. How then did this pauper 
come to be there? The war broke out, and Lincoln issued his call 
for men. This poor, shiftless man felt for the instant something of 
that thing which leads all men on to some great test of manhood, 
without which they will not go. That man volunteered and went 
to the front. He died as a soldier should, and the people at home 
said that "God had given him new life," and so they brought him 
and buried him beside their own. What they meant was that in 
some miraculous way God had shown that man his sublime duty 
as a citizen; something out of the ordinary routine of life, that 
he might do his share to preserve this republic as a free govern- 
ment. 

36 



37 



I shall claim first no one really does his full duty as a citizen 
without making some sacrifice, and feeling something of sentiment 
about his work. In a republic, from the very nature of things, 
every great public benefit must be made up of a thousand little 
bits of self-denial or personal loss on the part of individuals. It 
follows as a natural law that if we would get any great abuse or 
wrong out of public life, a mighty penalty must be paid for it, and 
you and I and the rest of us must pay our little share. This was 
so of slavery, and it will be so of other evils which we are fighting 
to remove from public life. We must buy them, pay for them 
out of our own comfort or prejudice before we can kill them. 
The sentiment I have mentioned may be expressed in various ways. 
We may show it in packing a superior box of apples for the real 
joy of doing it, in making a good farm, in pride in a home, in a 
dozen ways which come into the ordinary life ; in doing things for 
which we expect only a sentimental or a spiritual reward. For the 
truth is that no man can do his full duty as a citizen for money 
value alone, or for the material things which he may hope to get 
out of life. Duty calls a man or a woman up to higher ground 
than that, doing things as I have said for the real joy of helping 
and improving the conditions of life. 

You may say that this is hard doctrine, but can you think of 
any real duty which does not involve some sort of a struggle or 
moral discipline? If that be so of small duties, how can we hope 
to escape the larger struggle in the greatest of all patriotic duties, 
that of keeping our republic so that the common man may have 
a fair chance ? And that is what it amounts to. We owe no patri- 
otic duty to the rich and great, or to those who have obtained more 
than their share. They owe a duty to us. Our duty lies rather 
to the plain common man who is denied the rights which should 
belong to him under a republic. I am not old enough to know it 
or prove it, but older men have told me that the ten years from 
'50 to '60 was the golden age of farming in America. There was 
little aid from science at that time, and less from invention. We 
never dreamed that we should be called upon to spray or ferti- 
lize, or do dozens of things which now seem necessity. It cannot 
be said that in those days the well-to-do farmer could be as com- 
fortable upon his farm as now. There were no such markets as 
now, and nothing to compare with our transportation or national 
wealth ; yet for independence of character, love of home, and real 
glory in our business, that period was, I believe, ahead of this one. 
I think that on the whole our citizenship was of a higher character. 
Why? Because at that time our farmers were inspired through 
their whole daily life by a great moral question regarding labor, 
and the God-given right of man to labor and to a home of his own. 
That was what the slavery question meant to most of our farmers. 
Men could not be free in hand and heart and soul, so long as 
slave labor or degraded labor was permitted in the same country. 
These old farmers before the war saw the point quicker than we 



38 



do that the foundation of all wealth and of real liberty lies at 
the last analysis in the free human hand. The first practical duty 
of citizenship was then, as now, to guard the rights of common 
labor, and this cannot be done successfully through any selfish 
material movement for personal gain. 

If you will stop and think for a moment, you will see that 
every battle in the world's history which has led to a real reform 
has been started in the country and carried on by plain country 
workmen. These things come out of the hills and the silent places 
where men have time for thought, and where they brood over the 
injustice of society. From Moses to Lincoln the leaders in this 
movement have been mostly farmers, or else farm bred men, who 
carried into other work this rankling injustice which would make 
the labor of the human hand inferior. 

If you look at him fairly, Moses will rank as a model for 
good citizenship. I have often tried to picture in my mind that 
wonderful scene where he stood before the Egyptian king. I can 
see the listless king upon his throne with the gang of fawning 
parasites and politicians around him. What a hopeless place ap- 
parently for a plain man or farmer to enter, yet all at once that 
crowd of sneering hangers-on parts as though someone had driven 
a mighty cleaver through it. A plain man strides through the 
opening and stands before the astonished king. And such a man! 
He was a farmer, tanned by the sun and wind of the desert, clad 
in rough skins, staff in hand. Had he been alone he would have 
been laughed out of the room, if not torn apart. Yet no man dared 
touch him, and he could look the king in the eye and say with au- 
thority "Let my people go." He was not alone, because invisible 
companions stood there at his side. They had come with him out 
of the desert, over the mountains and through the rivers, to stand 
there with him and silence that throng. These companions were 
the courage and the faith which God puts into the hearts of those 
who honestly try to do their duty. 

Perhaps you will say that I pay too much attention to this side 
of the case. Why do I not spend my time giving specific direction 
as to what a man may do ? No, for it is the foundation of it all. I 
watched for three years the erection of a great building in New 
York. For eighteen months there was nothing but a great hole in 
the ground, with a high fence around it. It seemed as if the build- 
ers were making no progress at all, and the public began to sneer 
and laugh at them. Yet what they were doing was the most im- 
portant thing of all, and that was to dig down and down until they 
could lay the foundation of that great building solidly upon a rock. 
In like manner it will be as I believe hopeless to take up the real 
duties of citizenship until we can in some way understand and 
recognize that our work is to be part of a genuine moral crusade. 

But granting that this is so, what is the need of any such ele- 
ment in public life? We are told that the country is prospering, 
and that conditions are as good as they ever have been. Who 



39 



tells you this ? Probably those who have the advantage in some way 
over what I have called the plain rights of free labor, or else it will 
be those who have stopped growing, and thus do not care. An old 
soldier who fought at Gettysburg told me what he was thinking of 
at the crisis of that battle. Those of you who live here can picture 
the scene far better than I can. This man told me that he stood with 
his regiment waiting for the long irregular line of Confederate sol- 
diers coming across the valley at a charge. Had that great line 
broken through it would have swept on to Philadelphia. If it were 
beaten back, the tide could never rise again. The guns above him 
were roaring, and this man, waiting for the shock, thought out the 
cause of it all. The night before he started for the war his old 
father, a lame man, who could not go to war, back on a New 
England farm had told him this: 

*'John, this war is at bottom an industrial conflict to see 
whether this nation is to be ruled by plain hand working people, 
or by an aristocracy of some sort. Probably not more than ten or 
fifteen percent, of the Southern people are really slave holders, 
but this small proportion has created a monopoly of political power. 
This war is to settle the question, shall the plain working people 
rule, or shall there be a government of the aristocracy which our 
ancestors ran away from?" 

This man said he heard that above the roar of the guns, and 
when at last the tide went back he felt that his children and his 
children's children were to have forever the free and fair chance of 
plain manhood. 

"Well," I said, "you earned it for them." 

"No, I was mistaken. All we won that day was the chance to 
gain true freedom, but not freedom itself, because freedom is a 
growth; it cannot stand still. It goes up or down and we will go 
down into the hands of the ruling classes unless those for whom it 
is designed, and who pray for it, are willing to give a part of their 
lives in order that it may live. We nearly threw away our chance 
because we did not watch it, and because we could not make our 
children understand just what citizenship means. The glory of 
what we had done overpowered us. We lived in it for years, and 
while we lived in this fool's paradise, silent, sleepless and strong 
forces were quietly at work with graft, special privilege and "joker" 
legislation, gathering the power in their hands. They have bought 
that most precious thing in life — manhood, until we have an aris- 
tocracy and power more dangerous to free labor and harder to 
fight than the old slave holding aristocracy. That was localized, 
and an entire section could be aroused against it. The new indus- 
trial aristocracy enters into every township of the country. We 
let it get by us when we substituted the glory worship of the old 
flag for our plain hard duty, and we were not able to make our 
boys understand it as we did." 

Now at heart this old soldier is right. There is no man here 
who will deny that gigantic evils have grown up in our country 



40 



through graft, special privilege and corrupt legislation. No one 
can deny that this evil bites down to the very heart of our form 
of government, because it takes power away from the small free- 
holder of land. No one can deny that we men of middle age and 
older have let this thing get past us, while we neglected the real 
duties of citizenship. No one can deny that in some way we have, 
up to this year, somehow found ourselves unable to make our young 
men see as we did just what was coming. The last campaign for 
the first time in forty years put a real moral issue into public life. 
That was essentially what it meant, and the response to it justifies 
what I have claimed about the need of a sentiment in public life. 
We know that the future of this country, all we have and all that 
we cherish, lies in the hands of children and younger men and 
women. Some of you who are rich and think you are great, may 
say that the future of Pennsylvania lies in the great vaults of 
Philadelphia, in the great iron foundries of Pittsburgh, in your coal 
mines, or even in the orchards on your hillsides. You are wrong. 
It lies in the hands of little children who are playing to-day on 
your streets or on your farm, and the childhood which these chil- 
dren enjoy will determine the future of your republic. For they 
are the nation, and put into a sentence, the supreme duty of grown 
up men and women is to see that every child has the God given 
right to a fair childhood, and that every young man and every 
young woman has the God given right to labor with self-respect and 
independence. The first great duty of citizenship therefore is one 
of understanding. My friend the old soldier said he could not 
make the next generation following him understand. Let us fairly 
comprehend w^hy. 

Emerson remains the great American philosopher, because 
he fired many short sentences at the truth, and usually hit the bull's 
eye. He puts our thought into a few words. ''Manual labor is the 
study of the external world. The advantage of riches remains with 
him who procured them, and not with the heirf' When a man 
starts with nothing and obtains a competence, he becomes uncon- 
sciously the master of it. The property may be money, land, exper- 
ience or reputation, but the man who acquires it knows the value 
of every dollar or every atom of it, because he has weighed and 
sampled it drop by drop of his blood and sweat. And thus it be- 
comes his slave, but when he turns it over to his untrained son, 
what was the slave of the father becomes the master of the boy. 
The problem for each generation as one follows another along the 
avenue of the years is this old problem of taking the slave of the 
father as a master, conquering it by character and toil, and making 
it in turn a slave. That is the whole story of historical development. 
As I read old history, it seems to me one long, monotonous record 
of building up great cities which prospered for a time only to be 
pulled down when finally the time came when the son was unable to 
conquer and dominate the slave of his father. Rome, Carthage, 
Athens, all rose to power over the dead body of that thing which 



41 



we still call "personal freedom," and which lies with the small 
freeholder. These cities conquered country provinces and made 
them pay tribute. Their entire scheme was one of developing city 
and town. They never improved the agriculture of any province, 
but drew the best blood away from it and made the production of 
food a work for menials. On this false basis the city rose to splen- 
dor and power, until finally it was always pulled down. And who 
pulled it down? Men who came out of the star-lit deserts; men 
who wandered out of the frozen north, where for centuries they 
had brooded over their wrong and hoarded in their hearts that 
spirit of home and of freedom which should ever remain as a part 
of the nature of the small freeholder of land. For in every age, 
and with every race of men, it is this man with the small parcel 
of land which he controls who has finally kept alive the world's 
liberties. It is therefore the great problem of government to keep 
this class of men prosperous and contented. The men who founded 
those old cities like the men who founded this republic, and who 
fought for it during our war, recognize this foundation truth of 
history, yet each and all of them have somehow failed to make 
the generation which followed them understand it as they did. 
As an illustration of what I mean, suppose you sit down with my 
boy, with your boy, or any group of young men, and try to tell 
them the true story of your competence or of your political con- 
victions. Eight chances to ten the boy will get the form of it, but 
will not get the spirit. You cannot make him understand fully, 
because you are talking the hard language of experience which is 
a language he has never learned. It is as if you were talking to 
him in a foreign tongue. You will not and cannot reach common 
ground with him on material things, not until you strike that strange 
and unknown quality which we call sentiment, or the spiritual side 
of public life. All through these long years men have been handing 
the slave which they have conquered, over to their boy, not realiz- 
ing that they have set a master over the young men without giving 
the true weapon needed to reduce him to a useful servant. For you 
and I, and all the rest of us have talked to our children and to 
others too much from the viewpoint of material success. The 
bright, clean and hopeful minds which are to take the slave of 
our generation have not understood just what the legacy means. 
You see it all comes back every time we start to the same point, the 
life, the essential thing of all freedom is the moral or spiritual side 
of it. That is the one universal language of manhood which binds 
one generation to another, the great conquering force which makes 
the slave of the father easier for the son to handle. 

Granting all this, what can I do ; what can you do to help the 
cause of the common man? There are certain well defined things 
which we should stand for always, definitely, openly, everywhere. 
Let me name a few of them. Legislation against child labor. 
When tender children are driven to work before their time, you 
and your children are injured in two ways. Whenever children 



42 



anywhere are denied the right to a fair childhood, your children and 
mine must face in the future a moral competition which could not 
help but sadden them. To work little children, or to overwork 
men and women, means degrading competition for you and me 
on much the same principle that the slave was the real enemy of 
free labor. I think farmers, of all men, should support labor laws 
which prevent what I call degraded hand labor. 

Fair Credits for Farmers. 

There is now a movement on foot to establish in this country 
a system of agricultural credits which will enable a farmer to 
obtain cash in his business as readily as the merchant or business 
man. You may not in this neighborhood feel the need of such 
credits as they do elsewhere, yet that is no reason why you should 
not support the principle. In the European countries such a sys- 
tem has been established, and has practically saved the European 
farmers from bankruptcy. We have in this country for years 
been trying to teach our farmers how to grow larger or better crops. 
This education always means an added expense for tools, methods, 
fertilizers, and also for transportation. That is one reason why 
so many farmers have been unable or unwilling to take up this 
science or improvement. It costs too much in cash, and they have 
not been able to obtain credit, for it would seem as if agricultural 
development and money march side by side. Thus we have in 
a way been putting the cart before the horse in our agricultural 
development, by offering the farmer an education which makes 
money expenditure necessary; at the same time we have made it 
impossible for him to obtain the needed money, after seeing that 
he could use it to advantage. In Europe and England, as I think 
wisely, the reverse of this has been worked out. Farmers were 
given fair credits ,and taught the possibilities of co-operative work 
before scientific education was put so much before them. That 
is one trouble, in this country, with scientific education, it has been 
of most benefit to the rich and the strong who have the needed 
capital to put the theories in practice. It is a patriotic duty of 
every farmer to help as he can the extension of this credit system. 

Parcels Post. 

For years as you know, our people have been held up and 
robbed by the Express Companies and Railroads for transporta- 
tion service. While every other civilized nation has reformed its 
postal service so as to give fair competition, this government has 
persisted in charging such high rates of postage that our farmers 
are denied the direct trade with consumers which European farmers 
enjoy. On January ist we are to begin in this country a new system 
of Parcels Post. It is not all we need, or all we deserve, but it 
is a beginning, and the extension of it to what we need will de- 



43 



pend upon the way our farmers use it. It is, I believe, the duty 
of every farmer to make the greatest possible use of this service. 

We can make it grow and develop as we did rural free de- 
livery, if we will patronize it and make it pay from the start. 
There is more at stake in this thing than you imagine. It means 
the beginning of a revolution in transportation and business putting 
both back nearer to the people. I do not see how we can help 
following the English system of gradually putting railroads, tele- 
graphs, telephones and similar utilities more or less under govern- 
ment control. I think that is the universal tendency of the times. 
In England the result of this has been to give the small freeholder 
and the tenant a fairer share. While fifteen or twenty years ago 
it was openly stated that English agriculture was ruined, to-day the 
English farmer is, on the whole, better off than ever before. This 
is true even in the face of the fact that imports of food into Eng- 
land are greater than ever before. It is not due so much to the 
increased production, or better farming, as to the fact that through 
fairer transportation and co-operation English farmers get more 
of the dollar than they did before. I think the same thing is to 
follow here, and that Parcels Post is the beginning of the use of 
public utilities for the direct service of the people. We as farmers 
have it in our power to bring this about, or to make a failure of 
the system. 

Pure Food and Honest Packing. 

I think it is the duty of every citizen to support all laws to 
prevent deception of any sort. Guaranteed food and packing is 
the foundation of direct trade to the consumer. He has been 
deceived so often that he will gladly give his money to the man 
who hands him a square deal and a fair bargain. Pure food and 
package legislation with Parcels Post are the connecting links to 
bring producer and consumer together. When you can do that 
you have the whole thing in your hands. I could name other spe- 
cific things which all good citizens should support, no matter what 
party they think they belong to. These are not party questions, 
but patriotic questions, because they get down to the root of things, 
the rights of the small freeholder to live and prosper. 

The old soldier I mentioned, and others of us could not make 
the boys understand because we kept on talking party to them, 
instead of patriotism. For years you and I voted for the shell of 
an old party name, while our boys wanted the heart and soul of 
something which we could not give them. Let me tell you what 
we have been doing by this illustration. Suppose one party made 
a wise "resolve" that fruit diseases are a menace to prosperity. 
They resolve that lime and sulphur is the remedy, and they pledge 
themselves to use it. Along comes a sulphur manufacturer and 
puts up $25,000 to pay campaign expenses. After election that 
man feels that he has bought and paid for the right to demand that 



44 



each member of that party must use lime-sulphur. Of course every 
good party man will do it and pay the full price, but now comes 
the other party. It also denounces plant diseases as a menace and 
pledges its members to use Bordeaux mixture. Up steps a manu- 
facturer of sulphate of copper with another $25,000, which carries 
the same right to demand that all good party men use Bordeaux 
and also pay full price. You may smile at this, but in a larger way 
that is just about what we have been doing, and what we have 
been teaching our boys as their political duty. We want and we 
need a different plan. We want to all get together on the propo- 
sition that plant or political disease is a menace, but that we do not 
care what you use so long as you kill it. 

Granting this, again the question comes, hozv can we do our 
duty? I mention three ways, — organization, courage, steadfastness. 
You are doing the first right here. I see some of your fruit in New 
York. People group around it and watch the apples and the labels. 
You have grown slowly and well. Every man who packs an hon- 
est box or barrel of apples gets into his heart a little of that pride 
and joy in his business which means more than dollars in his 
pocket. For I suppose you realize that through the years few 
really enduring things are made with the hands. Progress is 
through heart and character, for as the old hymn puts it, "Not the 
labor of my hands shall obey my Lord's commands." In learning 
how to combine over an apple you men are also learning uncon- 
sciously how to get together for the larger and nobler things of 
life. These may be packed in a box of apples as well as in a pic- 
ture, a sermon or a poem. Do you recognize how the cohesive 
strength of a great army depends upon that little joint in the human 
arm which we call the elbow? Soldiers tell me that when they 
march into battle ninety per cent, of the regiment feel that they 
would gladly run if they could, and if they wxre alone. But on 
either side they can touch another man's elbow. He is just as 
frightened as they are, but all are depending on the light touch of 
that elbow to hold them in line. 

You men in Adams County are showing us the way by build- 
ing a home organization. That is the way it must come, dozens and 
hundreds of smaller packing societies first of all, and then these 
welded together into a federation. No one likes to be drilled, and 
least of all a farmer, yet drill is all there is to it when the battle 
comes. 

And the duties of citizenship also involve courage of a rare 
and patient sort. It requires rare courage for a man of common 
life to leave his party when he knows it is wrong and give a fair 
reason for leaving it. No coward could possibly stand for an un- 
popular cause which he knows is right. There are dozens of things 
in business, we meet them day by day. They might be profitable 
right now, yet to do them means taking an unfair advantage of a 
neighbor or a customer. It requires rare courage to refuse to aid 
them, or to point them out to others, yet only in this way can the 



45 



plain people expect to drive dishonesty out of high places, for the 
morality of high places comes from that in the lower walks of life. 
It is not the complacent compromiser, but the clean fighter who 
can move the world onward. Suppose that right here in this town, 
or in Adams County there could be organized a body of men who 
would swear to put patriotic feeling absolutely above party. These 
men would denounce dishonesty at home or at Harrisburg. This 
would not be done bitterly with meanness or malice, but on the 
highest ground of patriotic duty. These men would organize and 
vote absolutely only for clean and capable men, the best citizens 
they could find. They would stand by this resolution, and by these 
men through loss, ridicule or abuse. Do you know what would 
follow; within a few years the great majority of the people of 
Adams County would be solidly behind these men, and all over 
Pennsylvania this county would have a political reputation equal to 
that it now enjoys and will enjoy for apples. You would attract 
attention from every political boss in the State, and you can gen- 
erally measure the efforts of a man for really good citizenship by 
the abuse he receives from the boss. There would be attempted 
bribery, bulldozing, bluff, and personal abuse. If the men I speak 
of would live through it all with courage and patience as Moses did, 
as Lincoln did, as every great leader has done, Adams County would 
be famous throughout the world, for it would give the world a 
model for good citizenship and political life without graft, but with 
business honor. I do not speak of the impossible. I am telling you 
just exactly what will be done in some community and some county 
in the future by just such a body of men as you can find here. 

And the good citizen must be steadfast. By that I mean patient 
and enduring. One trouble with us all has been impatience with 
the slow and the faltering. Those of us who have received the 
blessing of competence or education or power, are like those men 
who cannot make the younger generation understand, because we 
have forgotten the language which may go with poverty, depres- 
sion, lack of hope or of opportunity. I think our trouble is that 
we ourselves out of our superiority cannot understand the real les- 
son of growth or the obligation which we owe to society. 



TEST YOUR LIME-SULPHUR SOLUTIONS. 



WINTER INJURIES TO FRUIT TREES. 



Prof. M. a. BIvAKK, Horticulturist, New Jersey Agricultural Ex- 
periment Station. 



Mr. President, Members of the Adams County Fruit Growers' 
Association : Ever since I have been located in New Jersey I have 
heard a great deal about the good qualities of Adams County, and 
I certainly agree with all the statements I have heard. I have also 
heard that this is the real home of the York Imperial apple, and you 
certainly have some very fine ones on the stage this morning. 

Sometimes we say things that are not presented in such a 
manner as to mean just what we intended they should, so I have 
written a paper which I am to present to you this morning on 
"Winter Injuries to Fruit Trees." 

The winter of 1911-1912 was a most severe one, both from 
the standpoint of low temperatures, and in the variety and amount 
of winter injuries to trees and shrubs of all kinds. 

The weather during December, 191 1 was so mild that the fruit 
buds of the peach made considerable development throughout the 
eastern peach districts. These conditions were followed by unu- 
sually low temperatures in January and February, combined with 
dry cold winds. 

The foilage of such hardy trees as white pine and hemlock 
suffered marked injury, and California privet was severely killed 
back in numerous instances. 

Bark splitting and collar injuries were unusually common, es- 
pecially upon peach trees, although the cherry and the apple re- 
ceived severe injuries in some instances. 

The sap wood of peach trees was discolored even in the extreme 
southern end of New Jersey, yet, very little twig killing occurred 
even in the northern end of that state. 

The warm weather of the early winter followed by extremely 
low temperatures combined with high, dry and cold winds, account 
for the severity of the damage done. 

A discussion of the various forms of winter injury to fruit 
trees would seem to be a matter of considerable interest to fruit 
growers at this time. 

The various forms of winter injury to fruit trees can be classi- 
fied as follows : Root injuries, twig and wood injuries, trunk split- 
ting, bark splitting, collar injury, sun scald and bud killing. 

This is rather an imposing list, yet unfortunately, with the 
possible exception of root killing, I think that all fruit growers of 
considerable experience can recall an acquaintance with the entire 
list at one time or another, 

46 



47 



Although an extremely low temperature is an important factor 
in causing winter injuries, yet, extreme variations in temperature, 
lack of moisture in the soil, high winds, the kind and variety of 
tree and its condition are all of much consequence. 

The weather conditions, during the late summer and fall and 
just preceding winter should never be overlooked in investigating 
any case of winter injury. 

It is a commonly stated fact that a late, sappy wood growth is 
responsible for the severity of winter injuries to our fruit trees. 
This is undoubtedly true in numerous instances, especially in the 
extreme northern fruit districts, but it is equally true that a se- 
vere drought and sudden check in the development of the trees, in 
the late summer and fall, may result in winter injuries equally se- 
vere. This latter fact has been generally overlooked in emphasizing 
the importance of well ripened wood to withstand the winter. 

Evaporation takes place from the branches and twigs of trees 
and shrubs throughout the winter, and if one will but examine the 
twigs of fruit trees following a very cold, dry period, the bark of the 
twigs will appear to have lost some of its brightness and fullness 
and may even be slightly shriveled. If the cold, dry period is fol- 
lowed by rain and high temperatures the bark on these same twigs 
will become much brighter and more full. The tree has taken up 
more moisture and it is indicated in the appearance of the bark. 

Serious injuries are certain to occur to fruit trees whenever the 
soil freezes to the full depth of the root system, followed by a con- 
siderable period of dry, cold winds. The twigs and branches of the 
trees may be actually frozen dry, especially if the soil was dry pre- 
vious to freezing. 

Apple trees in full bearing are sometimes killed outright, in a 
single winter, in the Dakotas and in some of the provinces of Can- 
ada. Root injuries are caused by low temperatures and by alter- 
nate freezing and thawing of the roots. Such injuries are quite 
common in extreme northern fruit districts, and are most severe 
in those localities when the soil is dry and the ground free from 
snow, during cold periods. 

Experiments conducted by the Nebraska Experiment Station 
are of much interest in this connection. Fruit trees were planted in 
boxes, containing different amounts of moisture ranging from 15 to 
25 per cent, just before winter. Some also received a straw mulch, 
others were covered with snow whenever snow fell, and some were 
stored in a cool dry cave. More than sixty per cent, of the trees 
died in the boxes where the moisture content was 15 per cent. Less 
than 15 per cent, of the trees died where the moisture content was 
19 per cent. Not a single tree died in the boxes mulched with straw, 
although the moisture content was only 16 per cent. Some trees 
died in the boxes that were occasionally covered with snow and 
whose moisture content was 15 per cent., but the injury was much 
less than in the uncovered boxes containing the same amount of 
moisture. 



48 



No root injury, whatever, occurred to the trees stored in a cool, 
dry cave and it was inferred that cold and dryness are the im- 
portant factors in causing root injuries. 

The fact that root injuries are so severe in dry soil is that the 
cold, dry air comes in contact with the roots and dry freezing re- 
sults. 

Trees whose roots are entirely killed or severely injured are 
likely to die immediately, and before growth begins. Trees less se- 
verely injured may start into growth and then suddenly die with a 
crop of fruit upon the trees, while still others may continue a lin- 
gering existence until insects and diseases and further winter in- 
juries overcome a waning vigor. 

How can we prevent or lessen the dangers of root injuries? We 
know that certain stocks are more hardy than others and in districts 
where much root killing occurs this is a matter of the first im- 
portance. In general, root injuries to fruit trees in central At- 
lantic Coast districts are not of the most severe kind, and, yet, 
minor injuries in certain forms may finally result in much damage. 

A good cover crop upon the soil will tend to prevent deep 
freezing ; it will also help to retain snow and moisture, and may be 
an important factor in the prevention of root injuries in winter. 

Twig and wood injuries commonly occur in connection with 
root injuries, but such is not always the case. The twigs and 
branches of trees are sometimes injured when no root injury occurs 
and vice versa. 

Very low temperatures are likely to result in considerable kill- 
ing back or twig injury, especially upon the more tender fruits. 
This is most severe upon strong, rich, moist soils where a late 
wood growth occurs or where a severe drought suddenly stops wood 
growth in mid-summer. Varieties of apples, peaches and other 
fruits which ripen their crop relatively late in the season are often 
more severely injured than varieties which ripen their fruit early. 
The late maturing varieties are obliged to keep in a more active 
growing condition in order to mature their crop, and have a very 
short time in which to give their entire energy to the maturing of 
fruit buds to withstand winter conditions. An example of this oc- 
curred in New Jersey in the winter of 1910-1911, when the fruit 
buds of many late varieties of peaches failed to pass a comparatively 
mild winter successfully. We undoubtedly have two extremes to 
guard against, a too prolonged wood growth and a too sudden and 
early check to wood growth. The former may be of much greater 
importance in northern fruit districts, but the latter is of equal or 
more importance in southern New Jersey and districts south of that 
locality. 

In severe winters, injury to the sap wood of the larger branches, 
and the trunk may occur in addition to twig killing. The young sap 
wood may be killed while the cambrium remains alive and continues 
growth the following spring. The injured wood becomes spongy, 
commonly turns brown or black, and a split trunk or a broken 



49 



branch becomes the open door for various wood destroying fungi to 
enter. 

Trunk splitting is perhaps most common upon peaches, cher- 
ries and plums, but unfortunately, our other tree fruits are not alto- 
gether free from such trouble. It is believed to be the result of a 
sudden and severe drop in temperature causing a contraction of the 
bark and outer layers of wood and that it is most likely to occur to 
trees that have made a late growth. 

Bark splitting is much more common than trunk splitting and 
occurs under conditions similar to those which cause trunk split- 
ting. A warm, moist, late fall, followed by snow and a sudden 
and marked drop in temperature are ideal conditions to bring about 
trunk splitting and bark splitting. The age, variety and actual con- 
dition of the bark and wood of the tree will, of course, determine the 
extent of the injury. 

Sun scald is a term applied to a type of bark injury in winter. 
It is most common and severe upon young trees in northern and 
western fruit districts. It consists of the killing of the bark upon 
portions of the trunk, and sometimes of the main branches, where 
most directly exposed to the sun's rays. This injury, therefore, 
occurs principally to the south side of trees, and is most likely to 
occur during the late winter when bright days are followed by cold 
nights. 

Where the trunks of the young trees are short and partially 
shaded by the branches, such injury seldom occurs. However the 
trunks of rather high-headed trees can be artificially shaded by 
laths, pieces of corn stalks, veneer, or even sprayed with whitewash 
if there is much danger of injury of this nature. 

Collar injury is much more common and serious than sun 
scald or bark splitting with either apples or peaches. During the 
past few years extensive injury of this nature has occurred to 
peaches in nearby districts. 

The term collar in the vocabulary of the nurseryman and the 
fruit grower, is a term applied to that portion of the trunk of a 
tree where the bark of the trunk above ground meets the bark of 
the root at the soil line. 

Upon young trees this is readily detected by the difference in 
color of the bark. But unless the tree has been grafted or budded 
at this point, there should be no very marked difference in the bark 
structure. There generally is, however, a marked difference in the 
ability of the bark of the trunk and the bark of the root to with- 
stand exposure to weather. The bark of the root being accustomed 
to the protection of the soil is likely to be severely injured if such 
protection is removed by the washing away of the soil or by having 
it removed in an attempted freeze out of borers. 

The collar of a fruit tree, in fact, is a very critical point in the 
whole structure of the tree. It is where the freezing and thawing 
process is likely to be most severe for within a comparatively short 



so 

space up and down the trunk the bark above ground may be frozen 
solid, while just below it may be free from frost and vice versa. 

During high winds the twist and strain upon a young tree may 
be severe at the surface of the soil, especially if the ground is 
frozen. Fruit trees are commonly planted so that the point of bud- 
ding is at or near the surface of the soil, and even though the 
union between the top and the root be a most congenial one, never- 
theless, it is the point where the freezing and thawing process is 
most likely to find a weakness. 

It is not so remarkable then that fruit trees suffer considerably 
from collar injuries, which commonly result in what is termed 
collar rot. 

The actual decaying of the bark is secondary and is preceded by 
winter injuries, which actually damage the bark. Such injuries are 
quite common in New York State and our more northern fruit 
sections, especially with varieties of apples, such as the King and 
Gravenstein. 

Collar injury to apples is not common in New Jersey, but 
much damage has occurred to peaches. Collar injury or collar rot, 
if severe, results in the killing of a section of the bark completely 
around the trunk, near the surface of the soil, while above and 
below this point the bark of trunk and roots may be free from in- 
jury. The tree is now girdled and will continue to live until the 
stored up food, in the roots and top, is exhausted, when it will sud- 
denly die. 

In less severe cases where only a portion of the bark is killed 
the tree may continue in fruit bearing for several years. But un- 
less given attention, the injury is likely to grow more severe each 
year. Borers, bark beetles and other enemies add to its troubles and 
the tree dies. 

Collar injuries which effect the bark, but not severe enough to 
destroy it at first are quite common upon peach trees. The effect 
of slight damage is usually first observed in a rolling and early 
ripening of the leaves in the middle or latter part of the following 
summer, and if not too severe the fruit will be forced up to a larger 
size than upon normal trees in the same orchard. Such forced fruit 
is sometimes slightly bitter, but in any case, it can always be de- 
tected by its coloring. Minute white dots, even in the highest col- 
ored specimens tell the story. Trees injured only to this extent are 
likely to decline rapidly unless cut back and well cared for. 

The killing of fruit buds is a form of winter injury that is 
better understood, generally, than some of the other forms of in- 
jury, already mentioned, but the exact cause of the injury in each 
case is not as easily determined as is sometimes supposed. 

Late fall growth with immaturity of buds, low winter tempera- 
tures or a premature starting into growth during mild periods are 
common causes widely accepted. Let me add to these above- 
mentioned factors the poor development of fruit buds due to dry 
and unfavorable soil and weather conditions, in summer and fall. 



51 



Minor winter injuries to the twigs and wood of fruit trees 
sometimes occur, which have the effect of a slight check to the vege- 
tative growth of the tree. This may not be apparent in the color 
of the foliage, but is shown in the slight forcing effect on the fruit. 
Sometimes the fruit upon certain twigs of a tree will be forced to a 
large size, while others will be below normal in size and may even 
fail to ripen. Even very large and very small fruits may occur on 
the same twig in cases of minor winter injuries to the wood. 

What methods of orchard practice can now be followed to 
prevent or lessen the various winter injuries to fruit trees? 

All forms of winter injury are most severe upon low and poorly 
drained land. 

Peaches especially should be set upon elevated sites in all sec- 
tions not influenced by large bodies of water. There were prac- 
tically no peaches in Connecticut or northern New Jersey the past 
season below 600 feet elevation, while there were good to full 
crops upon standard varieties at 600 to 900 feet elevation. 

The state experiment orchard at High Bridge had the best crop 
in its existence, while the peach section of Annandale and Lebanon 
produced but little fruit. The orchard at High Bridge is at an ele- 
vation of 650 to 700 feet, while most of the orchards about Lebanon 
do not exceed an elevation of 400 to 500 feet, and many are not 
above 200 to 300 feet. The past season clearly demonstrated the im- 
portance of proper elevation. 

Very dry soils may be listed with poorly drained soils as a thing 
to be avoided. 

Hardy varieties of fruit should be given first consideration. 

Vigorous and well-grown stock should be purchased. Any 
weakness of the tree itself makes it more susceptible to winter in- 
juries. 

Thorough cultivation and proper fertilization during the grow- 
ing season is essential to promote vigor. Trees weakened by neglect 
are more susceptible to winter injuries. 

A good thick cover crop in the orchard retains moisture, pre- 
vents deep freezing and may lessen or prevent root injuries. 

Much collar injury may be prevented by mounding the soil up 
about the trunks of the trees just before freezing weather in early 
winter. This applies especially to peach trees. 

Apple trees which have a portion of the bark killed at the col- 
lar line should receive prompt treatment. The injured bark should 
be cut away and the wound coated with a good fungicide such as 
Bordeaux Mixture. Fungi which cause decay of the bark occur 
generally in the soil and will quickly attack injured bark, while if 
the injured part is removed and a fungicide applied the development 
of the rot and further injury to the tree may be prevented. 

If the injury is serious annual treatment of the wound is 
recommended, and a mound of soil should be made about the trunk 
every year just before winter. 



53 



Neglect of cultivation, especially in a dry season, is likely to 
add to the severity of winter injuries. The dryer the season the 
more important it is to keep up cultivation, not only for the bene- 
fit of the crop on the tree, but for the crops to follow. 

Good care and close attention to details in the management of 
an orchard are far reaching in effect. Vigorous, healthy and well- 
cared for trees are able to successfully battle single-handed against 
many enemies, but weak, neglected trees are so besieged with trou- 
bles that both grower and trees become discouraged and give up the 
fight. 

Take good care of your trees and they will respond by taking 
care of themselves. 

Discussion. 

Prof. Stewart. I would like to ask Prof. Blake if he has had 
any experience with June buds. 

Prof. Blake. In practically all cases I would prefer a one year 
old tree to a June budded tree. We have found it difficult to find 
large, vigorous June budded stock. If you can secure June buds 
from two to two and one-half feet high they might be satisfactory, 
but we have often had difficulty in securing them from one foot to 
eighteen inches high. We have found that the better the soil condi- 
tions the better the smaller grades will do. 

R. M. Eldon. Would you prefer northern grown trees to 
Tennessee grown peach trees ? 

Prof. Blake. I would not make any difference there provided 
the trees were well grown and free from disease. That is the im- 
portant point, to have them well grown and free from diseases. 

Mr. Bassett. What of storing trees in cellars for winter. 

Prof. Blake. If they are properly stored I think the trees are 
all right. 

Mr. Bassett. W^hat do you mean by ''properly stored" ? How 
are you going to handle them so that they will be? 

Prof. Blake. They should be stored so that they do not dry out. 
I should say that if the trees are taken up in the late fall and put in 
the storage house where the roots are kept moist and the tempera- 
ture held between 35 and 40 degrees, I should say the trees are 
properly stored. I have planted a good many stored trees in my 
experiments and we have taken measurements of the growth of the 
trees, and I cannot see where there is very much difference between 
stored trees and freshly dug trees. On the other hand, stored trees 
in many cases should always be soaked in water for sometime before 
they are planted. 

Mr. Bassett. As compared with the practice of heeling in, 
which is the old common practice, have you had any comparison 
with trees stored in cellars against trees that were heeled in? 

Prof. Blake. Our experience has been with cellar-stored trees 
against freshly dug trees. If the trees are properly stored, I do not 
see why they are not just as good as trees left out over winter. 



53 



Mr. Newcomer. In a peach orchard three years old that was 
badly frozen last season but made a good growth this season, is 
there any possibility that these trees, with treatment, will bear 
fruit for any length of time ? 

Prof. Blake. If proper attention is given it from now on it 
ought to be very successful. I had some experience with an orchard 
three years ago that went through a severe winter. The orchard 
revived and bore a very heavy crop after that. 

Member. I have an orchard in that condition. Last winter 
it froze down and looked as though it had been burned over by 
fire. We have given it as first-class cultivation as we know how and 
it made a good growth, but the trees in many instances seem de- 
cayed at the heart. 

Prof. Blake. If the trees are well cared for I think the chances 
are you can get profitable crops. I certainly would not give it up. 

C. J. Tyson. What would you think about the probability of 
trees overcoming winter injury to the hard wood? 

Prof. Blake. If they make a good growth they will overcome 
that injury, of course, but will be weaker than trees that have not 
been effected in that way. Some orchards that have been injured in 
that manner continue to bear good crops. The wood in the centre 
is not quite so strong. 

R. A. Wickersham. Have you in your observation ever seen 
trees bearing fruit on one side and the other side not bearing, on 
account of hard winds? 

Prof. Blake. That fact occurs in some instances. The bees 
and insects that pollinate the fruit will not work in the face of a 
very cold wind. You will find the bees all on one side of the tree, 
and if it happens to be a variety that needs cross-pollination, the 
fruit will set largely on that side of the tree. It has been very 
clearly shown that the pollen of the apple is not carried by the wind 
to any extent. Sometimes, of course, the weather might be so 
cold that the wind itself would injure the blossoms on one side of 
a tree. 

A. W. Griest. To go back to injury of peach trees by cold, last 
spring I planted out a lot of peach trees, and about one-third of 
them, later in the season, started to grow and send out those shoots 
from down near the ground. One-third of them did not start at all, 
but I found later, in pruning the trees, that every tree was injured 
at the heart. The wood was absolutely dead. What would be the 
result with those trees if I let them grow ? Some of them afterward 
made a very fine growth, sending up large, healthy shoots. 

Prof. Blake. The trees that made a good growth I think will 
overcome it. As the trees are young I do not think the injury is 
sufficient to permanently injure them. They ought to come out of 
it all right. 

C. J. Tyson. Would you give the same answer if they were 
apple trees ? We had the same experience with some apple trees last 
spring. 



r 



54 



Prof. Blake. Yes, if they made a good growth I think with 
good care they will overcome that injury. 

Mr. Bassett. There is one important matter right here, at least 
it is important with us, that I want to bring up, and that is the 
selection of nursery stock. We do not like the average cellar-stored 
tree. Now the professor is absolutely right if the tree is perfectly 
stored, but that is the problem. I do not say that they do not store 
them right, but the results we have had, of late years, from cellar- 
stored trees have been bad. We compared right side by side trees 
that were stored by nurserymen and by our own farmers in Mich- 
igan. They were stored in the fall and came to us in spring de- 
livery. Spring delivery trees are cellar stored trees. The results 
in every instance have been three or four times as good from the 
heeled-in trees as those stored in cellars. In other words, we had 
four or five times the loss from trees stored in cellars than from 
the old-fashioned way of heeling them in. If you come to our sec- 
tion now you will find very few cellar stored trees. The main 
thing is the vitality of the tree. As I said before, they should be 
properly stored and not piled up like so much cord-wood. 

Another thing the professor spoke of is that stored trees are 
liable to be dried out, and he suggests soaking the trees. When I 
presented that subject before the Illinois meeting a man objected 
very strenuously to the idea of soaking the tree. He objected and 
stated as the basis of his objection the fact that he had compared 
trees that he applied water to when planting with non-soaked trees, 
and the result was that the trees that were watered when planted 
were very poor, as compared with trees that were not watered, 
which indicated that water should be kept away when planting. I 
question whether that is the case, but it is worth thinking about. In 
our section we do not want the ordinary stored tree. We want our 
trees gathered in the fall, shipped to us, and then heeled in. I think 
lots of our troubles came from stored trees. 

Question. How do you heel them in? 

Mr. Bassett. In heeling them in you understand we dig a deep 
trench, open every bundle and very thoroughly pack the soil around 
the roots so as to cover them. The wind blows the snow over them 
and in that way they are protected. They come out of the winter 
in the very best condition and the result is we get the finest, green, 
elegantly shaped trees. 

Prof. Blake. Certainly, if you take up fresh trees in the fall 
and heel them in yourself and take care of them, they will be in 
good, fresh condition, and nearly all of the stored trees are more 
dried out than fresh stock, and I find that wetting the roots is an 
important factor in the way they will start out into growth. Where 
they are stored, or dried out in transit, if you want to get the best 
results I certainly would put them in water before they are planted. 
If a plant has a large quantity of water in it it can stand a good deal 
of drying out without injury. 



55 



R. M. Eldon. What objection is there to watering the trees as 
you plant it ? 

Prof. Blake. If the soil is properly prepared I do not think it 
is necessary. It seems to me if the ground is plowed as early in 
the spring as possible and then the trees put in, they certainly 
should be in fine condition. 

Question. Does not pouring of water on the tree do away with 
air spaces ? 

Prof. Blake. I do not see why there should be any injury from 
pouring water on the trees. The wet ground should be covered up 
with dry soil. The soil should be in fine condition early in the 
spring. 



U. S. KLINEFELTER 

MANUFACTURER OF 

Standard Apple Barrels 

Of Excellent Quality 

DEALER IN 

Fruit Baskets 

Of Various Kinds 



BIGLERVILLE. PENNSYLVANIA 

United 'Phone 



56 



First National Bank 

GETTYSBURG, PA. 
Capital, $100,000.00; Surplus, $150,000.00 

S. M. BUSHMAN. President J. ELMER MUSSELMAN. Cashier 

flPays Interest on Certificates for six 
months or more at 3%% per annum. 

DIRECTORS 

SAM'L M. BUSHMAN G. H. TROSTEL JNO. D. BROWN 

J. L. BUTT W. S. ADAMS P. A. MILLER 

C. H. MUSSELMAN 

Accounts Solicited However Small 



HILL TOP ORCHARDS 
WAREHOUSE COMPANY 

Flour, Feed and General Merchandise 

LUMBER OF ALL KINDS 
Lath, Shingles, Etc. Apple Barrels 

A lot of two year old apple trees, all the leading varieties 

W. S. ADAMS, Prop. 

ASPERS, PA. 



THE USE OF FERTILIZATION IN APPLE ORCHARDS. 



Dr. J. P. Stewart, Experimental Pomologist, State College, Penna. 



The proper fertilization of an orchard is largely a local prob- 
lem. It is no less a problem, however, because it is local. The same 
is true, to a marked extent, of many other orchard operations, not 
excepting cultural methods. It is true that of late it has become a 
fashion among horticulturists to assume that the whole truth is 
known about cultural methods, that there is but one proper method 
for orchards and that all growers who do not follow it are either 
shiftless or ignorant. But the fact is, that even with cultural meth- 
ods, the practice found best for one particular soil or location, or 
for one age of orchard or fruit effect, is by no means certain to be 
best for all others or even the best for the adjacent farm. In gen- 
eral, therefore, it appears that there are at the present time, com- 
paratively few horticultural principles or practices which are really 
exact and general in their application. Most of them seem to be 
quite subject to important exceptions, and hence usually they re- 
quire some local modification or adjustment, if the best results are 
to be secured. 

So it is with orchard fertilization. We know that it is likely 
to be important and we can now give approximate general direc- 
tions for it. But w^hen we come to the actual fertilization of a par- 
ticular orchard, some local tests and local adjustments are usually 
desirable. 

The Amounts of Plant Food Actually Taken up by a Mature 

Orchard. 

That there is an important need for fertility in any orchard 
that is actively producing and growing, there can be no reasonable 
doubt. The actual extent of this need can be approximated chem- 
ically by determining the average composition of apple wood, leaves, 
and fruit, and applying these figures to what may be considered 
good annual amounts of these three products. This we have done 
both for apples and for a 25-bushel crop of wheat, with the results 
shown in Table I. The annual weights for apples are based on a 
yearly production of 100 pounds each of wood and leaves and 14 
bushels of apples per mature tree. All these amounts are distinctly 
less than those actually observed and reported, but inasmuch as they 
give an annual yield of 490 bushels per acre of 35 trees, they are 
considered sufficient for the present purpose. 



57 



58 

Table I.— Relative Plant-Food Draft of Wheat and Apples. 

(In lbs. per acre annually, based on American and German Aver- 
ages.) 

Wheat Wheat Wood Lvs. Fruit Apple 

Grain Total Lb. Lb. Lb. Total 



Annual weights, , 1,500 4,200 3,500 3,500 24,500 31,500 

Nitrogen (N), 30.0 43.7 11. 3 25.6 16.2 53.1 

Phos. acid (P2O5), . 10. o 15.8 3.6 5.3 6.4 15.3 

Potash (K2O), 9.8 26.8 6.6 15.9 41.5 64.0 

Lime (CaO), 0.84 8.0 29.1 29.5 3.0 61.6 

Magnesia (MgO), .. 3.0 6.1 4.4 8.9 3.4 16.7 

Iron (FeO), 0.5 1.5 0.8 2.8 



In the first place it will be noted, that in total food draft, the 
apples exceed the 25-bushel wheat crop in every constituent except 
phosphoric acid, and in it they fall behind only by half of a pound. 
Notwithstanding this fact the trees are usually able to maintain 
themselves much better and longer than wheat. This is probably 
largely because of their much longer season of root-activity, their 
more natural demands,* the annual return of most of the plant 
food in their leaves, and their ability to curtail production for one 
or more seasons when conditions become unfavorable. Without 
going into details, however, it is quite evident that very important 
amounts of plant food are annually removed by an apple orchard. 
Scarcely any soil can furnish all these materials indefinitely in the 
amounts and times required, and unless proper assistance is ren- 
dered, there must come a time when production is materially re- 
duced and off-seasons occur. 

It is also interesting to note the relatively large amounts of 
nitrogen, potash, and lime, and the comparatively small amount of 
iron annually taken up by the apples. Nearly all the lime remains 
in the wood and leaves, while a large proportion of the potash is 
found in the fruit. 

This large amount of lime seems to have some significance, so 
far as the wood is concerned, because, as shown later, in most of 
our experiments, its application has improved the growth. In view 
of the small amount of lime required by the fruit, however, its 
application should not be expected to materially affect the yields, and 
this corresponds with our field results. Moreover the total effect 
of adding lime alone surprisingly small, in comparison with the 
relatively large amounts that are taken up. Either these amounts 
are merely drawn in and deposited mechanically by the transpira- 
tion stream, and hence are largely without physiological significance, 
or else the average soil is still able to supply the lime needed. 

♦This is especially marked in the case of the fruit as compared with the 
demands of the grain in wheat. For further discussion, see article by the 
writer in the Annual Report of the Pennsylvania State College for 1910-11, 
pages 447 to 449. 



59 



With iron the case is very similar. This element is almost uni- 
versally present in agricultural soils and the total amount required 
is so small that its addition can scarcely be expected to produce 
any important effect. This also is borne out by such experimental 
results as are now available. 

From the large amount of potash carried by the fruit, one might 
suppose that its addition to the soil would be very important in im- 
proving yields, and this idea has been widely proclaimed, especially 
by those considering only the chemical composition of the fruit. 
As indicated later, however, it seems that most orchard soils are al- 
ready sufficiently supplied with potash in available forms and that 
the chief shortages occur in the nitrogen and phoshates. This is 
the case notw^ithstanding the fact that the latter materials are actu- 
ally required in considerably smaller amounts. 

From these facts it is evident that there is comparatively little 
relation between response and requirements in the case of plant 
food and that something more than a knowledge of the chemical 
composition of the fruit and wood is needed before one can prop- 
erly fertilize an orchard. Even with the additional knowledge of 
the composition of the soil, the problem is not much simplified 
because it is impossible as yet to duplicate sufficiently the conditions 
existing in any soil. 

A chemist may determine the total amount of plant food pres- 
ent, but he can not yet determine their actual availability to the trees 
with sufficient accuracy to be of much value. The practical and 
proper fertilization of an orchard, therefore, becomes an experi- 
mental problem, and its solution is dependent primarily upon the 
pomologist or horticulturist. In other words, the question is not 
so much what amounts of plant food are annually taken up, nor 
what amounts are present, but rather it is what responses are made 
when certain kinds and quantities of plant food are actually added 
to an orchard soil. 

It is to get light on the latter question in connection with ten 
different types of soil that we have been working at the Pennsyl- 
vania Station since 1907. Altogether in the case of apples we have 
ten experiments on bearing trees, and two on young trees involving 
a total of more than 2,800 trees, located in different parts of the 
State, all of which bear more or less directly upon the present ques- 
tion. For the present, however, we shall call special attention to but 
three of these experiments, since they bring out most clearly the 
principal points involved. 

Effects of Plant-Food Additions to Orchards. 

Some of the effects of adding plant-food to orchards are shown 
in Table 11. This table gives the yields obtained during the past 
five years in a lo-plot experiment with Baldwins, now 24 years of 
age, located on a Volusia silt loam in Lawrence County, north of 
Pittsburgh. In estimating the influence of the treatments, the 



6o 



yields of the first year are excluded because they can never be 
materially affected by the applications of the first season. The yields 
are given in pounds, and also in bushels per acre annually for the 
last four years. 

Table II. — Influence of Fertilization on Yield. 

(Johnston Orchard.) 
{Yields in pounds and bushels per acre; 1908-1912.) 

Plot 123456789 10 

Check Nit. & Nit. & Check Phos. & Comp. Check Manure Lime Check 
Phos. Potash Potash Ftlzr. 

Lb. Lb. Lb. Lb. Lb. Lb. Lb. Lb. Lb. Lb. 

1908 90 528 237 446 57^2 759 211 278 558 106 

1909 675 6,018 5,257 1,932 3,089 6,621 2,008 3,531 1,216 1,266 

1910. 2,575 3,265 1,822 3,168 3,552 2,108 1,629 6,149 3,185 3,505 

1911 283 7,563 7,816 617 1,227 8,209 1,362 4,874 388 106 

1912. 1,024 1,225 696 1,382 1,385 189 1,226 6,698 741 474 

Total 4 yrs., . 4,557 18,071 15,591 7,099 9,253 17,127 6,225 21,252 5,530 5,351 

Bu. per A. An- 
nually, 136.7 542.1 467.7 213. 277.6 B13.8 186.7 637.5 165.9 160.5 

An. Gain over 
Chk * Bu. per 

Acre, 377.9 293.5 103.4 339.6 463.3 8.3 

♦The average check or unfertilized plot produced 174.2 bushels per acre annually 
during 1909-12. 

In the first place, it will be noted that the checks, or unfer- 
tilized plots, have run fairly uniform, producing an average annual 
yield of 174.2 bushels per acre during the last four years. Lime 
alone (at the rate of 1,000 pounds per acre annually) has shown no 
improvement over the average check, and as a matter of fact it has 
averaged 8.3 bushels per acre less, a deficit that is doubtless largely 
or wholly due to incidental and natural fluctuations. The phosphate 
and potash combination has afiPected the yield here rather distinctly. 
This may be at least partly due to a possible advantage in location, 
as indicated by the fact that its adjacent check is the highest pro- 
ducer among them and is averaging within 64 bushels of the phos- 
phate-potash treatment. The growth on the latter plot, however, is 
nearly 3 per cent, less than the normal unfertilized plot, and its 
general appearance is not appreciably superior to that of the checks. 
It is evident, however, that these trees are still vitally in need of 
something, although it should be noted that they are receiving the 
fertilization commonly advised for orchards, — largely on the basis 
of chemical analysis 

This need is being quite thoroughly met on the adjacent plot 6, 
which differs from number 5 only in the addition of nitrogen. The 
mere addition of nitrogen in this case has more than tripled the gain. 
Wherever nitrogen appears in the treatments very large yields are 
observed, and the foliage and growth of the trees are very satis- 
factory, — the average gains in trunk-girth ranging from 25 to 90 
per cent. 




Fig. 6. Manure vs. Nothing. 
Row on left received stable manure third year. Produced 373.8 bushels 
per acre. Row on right received nothing and produced 27.9 bushels pel 
acre. Treatment otherwise identical. Variety York Imperial. 



6i 



Plot 2, receiving nitrogen and phosphate only, at the present 
time shows a better gain than number 6, which receives potash in 
addition. This is directly connected with the almost complete crop- 
failure that occurred on the latter plot this past season, and it is 
also doubtless partly attributable again to natural fluctuations in 
yield. It shows, however, that no additional potash is needed in this 
orchard, so far as yields are concerned. 

Phosphates are next in importance to nitrogen here, as indi- 
cated by the 42-bushel average deficit that occurs in plot 3 as com- 
pared with number 6, when phosphorus is omitted in the former, 
and also by the high yields on number 2. Manure, as a result of the 
extra large crop of 1912, when most of the other plots were having 
an off-season, is now in the lead in this experiment, with the tre- 
mendous average yield of 637 bushels per acre annually for the past 
four years. This gives an annual gain over the check of 463 bushels 
per acre, which is a very satisfactory exchange for 13 tons of 
manure. This benefit from manure is doubtless largely due to its 
nitrogen content, the proof of which becomes more evident later. 

Time Required for Results to Appear. — It is a common im- 
pression that long times are required to determine the value and 
kind of fertilizer needed for an orchard. It will be noted here 
and in the following experiment, however, that both these facts were 
thoroughly evident in the season immediately following the one in 
which the fertilizers were first applied. In other words, both the 
value of fertilization and the kind of fertilizer needed were clearly 
evident in these two cases within a single year after the first appli- 
cation, and the conclusions formulated then have not been materially 
changed by the results of the 4 to 5 additional years that we now 
have. In most other cases, also, where these facts did not appear 
in the first two or three seasons of bearing they have not appeared 
in the five or six years now available. This is of special importance 
in connection with the local tests recommended later, though in 
them we advise at least 3 years of trial, for the sake of a wider 
margin of safety and greater stability in the resulting conclusions. 

Results from the Brov/n Orchard. 

This experiment is located in Bedford County on DeKalb 
stony loam, — a residual, foot-hill soil, chiefly of sandstone origin, 
which is commonly used for orchard purposes. The trees in this 
case are York Imperial, now 24 years old. It involves the same 
treatments as those in the Johnston orchard and four others be- 
sides, — those in plots 6, 9, 11, and 12. It also was started a year 
earlier, in 1907, and the results of that season are excluded in the 
present table for reasons stated above. The results for the past five 
operative years are given in Table III. 



62 



Table III. — Influence of Fertilization on Yield. 

(Brown Orchard.) 
(Yields in pounds per plot, 1908-1912.) 



Benefit An. Gain 
over over av. 

Plot Treatment 1908 1909 1910 1911 1912 Totals Normal Check* 

per ct. bu. per a. 

1 Check, 2,402 25 4,052 1,588 453 8,520 

2 Nitr. & Phos., 4,153 588 5,920 2.219 7,28120,161 204.8 376.5 

3 Nitr. & Potash 3,079 78 3,838 1,567 5,40213,964 196.6 259.2 

4 Check 754 9 470 1,260 309 2,802 

5 Phos. & Mur., 1.014 252 2,381 1,643 616 5,906 79.9 75.2 

6 Phos. & Sulf., 292 266 1,368 1,299 356 3,581 4.8 10. 1 

7 Check, 254 192 1,115 1.568 1,117 4,246 

8 N. Ph. & Pota 1,219 454 2,436 3,241 4,931 12,281 208.7 253.7 

9 Nitrogen, . 863 1,575 120 3,082 1,614 7,254 96. ii3- 

10 Check, 458 515 787 1,448 222 3,430 

11 Acid Phos., 104 892 787 794 64 2,641 25.9 16.2 

12 Raw Phos., 100 124 581 703 123 1,631 55.9 35.5 

13 Check 266 257 2,096 498 727 3.844 

14 Manure, 621 1.947 778 7.334 1,11711.797 273.9 240.2 

15 Lime, 152 160 1,029 I-060 288 2,689 9.0 14.8 

16 Check 246 36 943 387 166 1,778 



*The annual gains over their "normal production" are indicated in plots 
2 and 3. Their annual yields were 564.5 and 391 bushels per acre respectively. 
The average check, omitting No. i, was 3,220 lb. per plot, or 90.16 bu. per 
acre annually. 

In general we have the same types of results here as in the 
preceding experiment, — large gains from nitrogen, phosphates and 
manure with relatively small effects from potash, and again no ad- 
vantage at all from line. There are greater irregularities in this ex- 
periment, owing somewhat to its greater size, but chiefly due to 
the presence of a woods on the mountain side above the first check 
plot, from which the latter is separated by a single row of trees. 
The leachings from the floor of that woods have acted much like a 
nitrogenous fertilizer, and as a result the trees nearest the woods, 
although of the same age as those farther down, are considerably 
larger, thus accounting for the greater yields of the first 2 or 3 plots. 
This influence practically disappears, however, before the fourth 
plot is reached, as shown by its low yields, — those of a typical check. 

The differences observed in the last two columns are due partly 
to these irregularities, partly to a certain amount of leaching and 
cross-feeding on the part of some of the checks in spite of separation 
rows below each treated plot, and partly to a different method of 
calculation. In one column the benefit is figured on the basis of the 
normal production of the immediate plot concerned, which method is 
supposed to eliminate soil irregularities to the greatest possible ex- 
tent. When the adjacent checks are being benefited by leachings or 
cross-feeding, however, this method fails to show the full benefit 
due to the treatment. This failure is especially evident in plot 6, 



63 



which shows an apparent negative influence in the "normal" column 
and a positive influence of ten bushels per acre annually in the col- 
umn based on the average check. The apparent negative influence 
is due directly to extra yields in the adjacent check plot 7 which is 
apparently receiving some benefit from plot 8 as a result of cross- 
feeding. The same thing appears in the negative figures shown by 
plots II and 12, though they are not entirely eliminated by using the 
average check as the basis. The average check, however, is not 
entirely free from the cross-feeding influences, since it only dis- 
tributes the extra yields and hence it is probable that the negative 
figures in plots 11, 12, and 15 of the last column merely indicate 
that these materials have no definite influence when applied by 
themselves, and the further deficits are attributable simply to natural 
fluctuations. 

Returning now to the results themselves, and especially to those 
treatments not included in the preceding experiments, we may note 
first that the muriate of potash in plot 5 has given much better 
gains than the sulphate in the adjacent plot. This is contrary to the 
results of the Massachusetts Experiment, but similar results are 
now being shown in all of our own experiments wherever this com- 
parison occurs. Hence the differences in the Massachusetts experi- 
ment would seem to be due to something other than the difterence in 
potash carriers. At present, therefore, we believe that the muriate 
is at least as efficient as the sulphate and in view of the facts that it 
is cheaper, more soluble, and much less subject to "caking" in the 
mixtures, we are now using and recommending it for apples. 

In plots II and 12, and other similarly treated plots in our ex- 
periments, we see the apparent futility of attempting to materially 
improve yields by applying phosphates alone. This is not due to the 
fact that phosphates are not needed, nor can it be largely attributable 
to the absence of cultivation, as may be seen by comparing the re- 
sults in plots 9 and 2. Nitrogen, by itself in No. 9, shows an annual 
gain of 96 per cent, or 113 bushels per acre, but when phosphorus 
is added in plot 2, these benefits are more than doubled. Phos- 
phorus as usual, therefore, appears to be next in importance after 
nitrogen in improving yields. 

The Permanence of Fertilizer Influence. — It is another fairly 
common impression that the influence of fertilizers is transient and 
that, even where their effect is favorable at first, this effect soon 
wears out and may leave the soil worse than before. This evi- 
dently depends very largely on the character of the fertilization and 
in this respect apples are not different from other crops. If the 
gains are induced by some caustic action of such materials as 
gypsum or lime when used alone, this may actually be the final 
result. 

On the other hand, it should be noted here that in plots 2, 3 
and 8, where definite plant foods are being supplied, the effects of 
fertilization were greater than ever before in 1912, the sixth year 
of the experiment. The steadiness and regularity of the increases, 



64 



also, are especially notable in plot 8, which shows a distinct gain in 
every year except 1909, and in that year the yield would have been 
fully 1,000 pounds greater had there been sufficient moisture avail- 
able, to properly mature the fruits that were actually present. 

In plots 2 and 3, the fertilization has not been complete and also 
the yields have been so large in the even-numbered years that it 
was impossible to prevent some alternation with lighter crops in the 
odd years. This same general condition is evident to a considerable 
extent in the Johnston orchard. In other experiments, however, 
and especially in one primarily on cultural methods in the Fassett 
orchard, with proper fertilization and with crops ranging between 
300 and 600 bushels per acre, we have had steady increases on Bald- 
wins and Spies similar to those in plot 8, which extended over a 
period of five years before any decrease appeared. 

The unusual size of the 1912 crops on plots 2 and 3 in the 
Brown experiment should also be noted. While their adjacent 
checks, I and 4, were showing an average yield of 73.2 bushels 
per acre, plots 2 and 3 were producing the tremendous average of 
1,217.5 bushels per acre, and 1,006 bushels of this were picked fruit. 
The terminal twig-growth of the checks, also, would scarcely 
average half an inch for the season, while that of the fertilized plots, 
in spite of their enormous crops, averaged from 6 to 8 inches with 
frequent terminals running up to 2 feet. And all these differences 
were brought about solely as a result of differences in fertilization. 
The spraying, pruning, soil management, variety and age of trees, 
and all other visible features were just the same on the checks as 
on the fertilized plots. 

Results in the Tyson Orchard. 

In the two preceding experiments, we have seen very large an- 
nual gains resulting from certain fertilization, particularly that rich 
in nitrogen and phosphorus, regardless of whether these elements 
were carried in manure or in commercial forms. In these cases also, 
the gains from potash were relatively small or entirely absent. Thus 
far in the Tyson experiment, so far as yields are concerned, we have 
practically the reverse conditions. 

The trees in the latter experiment are much younger, being now 
but 14 years of age. The varieties are York Imperial and Stayman 
Winesap, the latter having been top worked on certain York rows 
about 6 years after planting. The soil is a relatively heavy, silt 
loam, and tillage and annual cover crops have been maintained 
near the trees practically uniformly since the orchard was started. 
The annual growth and general appearance of all the trees in this 
experiment are much better than those of the average check trees 
in the two preceding experiments. Practically no fruit had been 
borne by these trees, when our experiment was started in 1907, 
and there has been but one fairly full crop since then, — that of 
191 1. The treatments are the same as in the Brown Experiment and 
the results are shown in Table IV. 



6s 

Table IV. — Influence of Fertilization on Yield and Growth in 
Experiment 215. 

(Tyson Orchard.) 

(Yields in pounds per plot, 1908-1912.) 



Treatment. 



o o 

1 Check, 14 

2 Nitr. and Phos., .... 26 

3 Nitr. and Potash, . . 43 

4 Check, 21 

5 Phos. and Mur., ... 26 

6 Phos. and Sulf 61 

7 Check, 18 

8 Comp. Fertilizer, ... 21 

9 Nitrogen, 17 

10 Check, 17 

11 Acid Phos., 3 

12 Raw Phos., 4 

13 Check 31 

14 Manure, 15 

15 Lime (and Ftlzr.), . 27 

16 Check, 10 



a'. 
.5 

a! S>> 

< 



e 

o 

>-> , 

> c 

o a; 
w 

_C ^ 

O ^ 

O 



95 
73 
115 
54 
146 
179 
45 
74 
83 
89 
43 
62 
46 
52 
86 
76 



346 2,053 

301 2,277 

418 3,043 

260 1,555 

476 2,828 

483 2,352 

235 1,777 

300 2,885 

229 1,746 

150 1,579 

153 1,359 

164 2,010 

103 1,886 

190 2,333 

186 1,765 

115 1,922 



549 3,057 

464 3,141 

542 4,161 

719 2,609 

495 3,971 

975 4,050 

862 2,937 

190 3,470 

551 2,626 

504 2,339 

655 2,213 

842 3,082 

615 2,681 

262 2,852 

1,113 3,177 

739 2,866 



8 


0 


12 


2 


7 


50 


9 


43 


0 


17 


46 




36 


5 


's 


43 


2 


36 


8 


2 


26 


7 


22 


9 


12 


3 


5 


4 


7 


7 


9 


8 


15 


8 


4 


20 


0 


1 1 


4 


0 


4 




4 




14 


13 


4 


13 




I 



As already indicated, the relative youth of these trees make 
both their yields and differences much less than those in the pre- 
ceding experiments. With increasing age, it is probable that some 
of the results may be different, especially in view of the relative 
grovi^th that is now being made under the different treatments. At 
present, however, certain facts are of interest. 

In the first place, the practical failure here of both manure and 
nitrogen is quite remarkable. The regular annual application of 12 
tons of stable manure, in this case, has resulted in an annual gain of 
less than 4 bushels of apples per acre. During the same time, 
nitrogen alone has shown no gain at all, and nitrogen and phos- 
phates, which were so effective in the preceding experiments, here 
show an annual gain of only 12 bushels per acre, — not enough to pay 
for the treatment. 

Potash on the other hand, in direct contrast to its effect in the 
experiments above, here shows a distinct gain in yield wherever it 
is applied. The best of these gains, — in combination with nitrogen, 
is only 43 bushels per acre annually, but this is more than a 50 per 
cent, increase over the normal yield, and it shows a fair profit over 
the cost of treatment, besides giving over 17 per cent, of an in- 
crease in growth. Potash applications therefore, have evidently 
been of value in this orchard, even when those of manure and 
nitrogen and phosphates were largely failing. 



66 



The Action of Manure vs. that of Commercial Fertilizers. — 

The above facts, taken in connection with those shown in the two 
earHer experiments, indicate that the plant-food action of manure is 
practically identical with that of a commercial fertilizer rich in 
nitrogen and phosphates. It also apparently indicates that the pot- 
ash in the manure may be less readily available than that carried in 
commercial forms. The old controversy over the relative value of 
manure and commercial fertilizers, therefore, is without any par- 
ticular significance so far as plant food is concerned. Either type 
of fertilizer may be successful or either may be a failure depending 
upon the particular conditions involved. 

The manure, however, often has some additional value, due to 
its mulching effect. This, of course, can not be duplicated by com- 
mercial fertilizers alone though it may be duplicated by any other 
kind of a mulch, as has been shown especially in our experiment 339 
in Bradford County. The matter of availability also must be often 
considered and it is for this reason that the relation between manure 
and nitrogenous fertilizers should be well understood. Besides this, 
it sometimes happens that large and regular applications of manure 
result in a distinct increase in the amount of blight, and also in an 
undue increase in the size of the fruit and in the amount of punky 
pitting in the latter. In such cases, a reduction in the applications or 
the partial or complete substitution of a proper commercial fer- 
tilizer is desirable. 

A Summary of Fertilizer Influences on Apples. 

It is impossible in the present space to consider all our experi- 
ments singly, to the extent done with the three just considered. 
Before passing to the last stage of our discussion, however, it 
seems desirable to present a very brief summary of the fertilizer 
influences shown in six of our experiments, including the three just 
considered. This summary shows the calculated influences of the 
various fertilizer elements on the four important characteristics of 
apples, viz : their yield, color, average size and the amount of wood- 
growth. The relative values of the different elements during a five- 
year period, in terms of per cents, of benefit over the normal results 
obtained without fertilization, are shown in Table V. 

Table V. — Influence of Fertilizer Elements on Apples. 

(Average Benefits over Normals, 1908-1912.) 

(a) Expts. 215, 216, and 220 Yield Color Size Growth 

per cent, per cent, per cent, per cent. 

1907-12 



Nitrates in Combin. 62.7 ii.o 0.7 10.43 

Nitrates alone, 32.5 12.7 4.3 15.51 

Phos. in Combin., 20.2 2.1 0.3 2.28 



67 





TO *? 




0 6 


0 AC 

■^•45 


Potash in Combin., 




2.7 


5.8 


3.67 




78.3 


15.4 


5.2 


17.67 




75-9 


II. 4 


5.8 


29.07 




8.24 


0.3 


2.0 


6.31 


(b) Expts. 336, 338 and 339 


1908-'! 2 


I909-*I2 


i909-'i2 


1908-'! 2 




74.5 


12.7 


0.4 


27.00 


Phosphates in Combin., 


33-5 


2.8 


4-9 


0.23 




3.6 


1.4 


7.1 


2.79 




80.5 


15.6 


5.2 


29.63 




168.8 


15.9 


25.2 


37.34 




29.8 


5-4 


15.9 


15.48 



Without going into details it may be noted that in general the 
same influences that have materially increased the yields have also 
increased the growth. In other v^ords, our best growing plots have 
as a rule been our best fruiting plots. On sound, healthy trees, this 
will generally be the case unless either occurs to an abnormal ex- 
tent, in which case the other may be somewhat reduced. Mild .in- 
juries may also stimulate yields at the expense of growth. 

In Table V, the most marked exception to our rule above ap- 
pears in the case of the phosphates, especially in the lower section 
of the table. This may be connected with the fact that the old wood 
especially is very low in phosphoric acid, as shown in Table I, and 
our present definite growth determinations are based upon increase 
in trunk-girths alone. On twig-growth, however, our observations 
indicate that phosphate additions have been very helpful, particular- 
ly in the Brown orchard. This also tends to bring it in line with our 
rule above. 

The Control of Average Size. — So far as fertilization is con- 
cerned, manure and potash are the only materials that have consist- 
ently benefited size. The manure influence is doubtless very largely 
due to its mulching or moisture conserving efifect, since moisture 
makes up about 84.6% of this fruit, on the average.* The potash 
influence also, so far as it is a definite benefit, is probably brought 
about through the same medium, inasmuch as potash is credited 
with some ability to increase the cosmotic power of the cells, thus 
enabling them to compete more successfully for whatever water is 
present. 

There is also a distinct possibility that the apparent benefit 
of potash on any size may be largely due to the fact that it is as- 
sociated with much lower yields than the other materials, especially 
nitrogen. Conversely their failures to increase size may likewise 
be due to their association with markedly increased yields. 

This brings out the general proposition to which we have called 
definite attention elsewhere,t that with a normal moisture supply 



♦See Table XVIII in the writer's article in the Annual Report of the Penn- 
sylvania State College for 1910-11, page 435. 
tSee article referred to in foot note 2, pages 500-503. 



68 



the dominant influence controlling size in apples is the number of 
fruits on the tree, after this number has passed a certain optimum 
or "critical point." This point, however, is relatively high, our 
data showing that even on trees up to 15 years of age, little or no 
correlation appeared until the number of fruits had reached 1,400 
or more per tree. Above this point, proper thinning is the most 
important means of increasing the size of the fruit. Below it, 
the size can usually be markedly affected by moisture supply, cul- 
tural methods, manure and possibly by fertilizers, — especially those 
rich in potash. The latter factors may also co-operate in such a way 
as to materially raise the critical point. In general, however, proper 
thinning and moisture conservation are the most important means 
of improving fruit size. 

The Control of Fruit Color.— In Table V, it will be observed 
that none of the fertilizer treatments has resulted in any marked im- 
provement in color. Slight and irregular benefits are shown by 
potash and some of the phosphate applications, but nothing of any 
importance. The same is true of iron applications so far as ex- 
perimental evidence is concerned. 

These facts again lead up to the general propositions that color 
in apples can not be materially increased by fertilizer applications, 
and that the red colors of apples are essentially dependent upon 
maturity and sunlight. Conditions that tend to increase one or 
both of the latter factors, such as late picking, open pruning, light 
soils, and sod culture tend to increase the red color. Opposite con- 
ditions decrease it. 

These propositions make it clear why the nitrates and manure 
apparently injure color. It is simply done by retarding maturity 
and diminishing the available sunlight as a result of the increased 
density of foliage. To determine the truth of this, in 191 1 we left 
the fruit on the nitrate plots in the Johnston orchard, until it had 
reached approximately the same degree of maturity as that at- 
tained by the checks when their fruit had to be picked on account 
of dropping. The delay required was fully three weeks, — from 
September 29th to October 19th, — and even then the latter fruit 
picked much harder than that on the checks, besides showing a 
much lower percentage of drops. The amount of color on the 
nitrate plots at the latter date also was actually greater by 10% 
than that shown on the checks at their picking time. 

The occasional marked increase on color as a result of spray- 
ing is largely explainable on similar grounds. The sprays reduce 
the worminess and thus enable the fruit to remain longer on the 
tree. It also may reduce somewhat the amount of foliage as a result 
of spray-injury thus permitting more light to reach the fruit. In 
general, however, in improving color, chief reliance must be placed 
on those methods that tend definitely to secure fuller maturity on 
the tree and to get the maximum amounts of light to the fruit. 



69 



Applying Present Data to Individual Orchards. 

In the three experiments discussed separately above, it was 
noted that the materials found most valuable in the first two were 
practical failures in the third, and vice versa. In still others we 
might show cases where no form of fertilization has yet shown a 
profit. These and other cases prove conclusively the local nature 
of the problem. Hence not even the experiments of others can 
offer more than general advice on fertilization of a particular 
orchard. 

This advice can doubtless be made more exact after a personal 
examination of the orchard concerned, by one who is familiar with 
orchard fertilization work, or it may be done with a greater cer- 
tainty if the owner will give attention to some of the more impor- 
tant characteristics of orchards needing fertilization. These are 
best observed in late summer and fall. 

In general the characteristics of the orchard that is certainly 
in need of a fertilizer are those of starvation. They are usually 
sufficiently familiar to need no extended description. They are 
found most commonly in the older orchards that have once borne 
well but no longer are doing so, tho still fairly free from important 
diseases or improper drainage. The foliage is sparse and pale 
in such orchards, and the annual growth stops early and averages 
short, — often no more than half an inch, — and from this it may 
range up to two or three inches. In such cases, one can usually 
apply fertilizers fairly liberally with practical confidence of profits, 
providing the varieties and other handling are right. Even in such 
an orchard, however, it is advisable to leave a small typical por- 
tion unfertilized to really determine the value of the treatment. 

Under opposite conditions, such as obtain in most young 
orchards, or in any orchard that is still growing and fruiting well, 
and retaining its foliage until late in the season, fertilization is much 
less likely to show a profit. Even in such cases, however, there 
is often enough probability of benefit, to warrant some trial of 
fertilization, but only over a relatively small area, and with most of 
the orchard left unfertilized as a check. 

These trials are especially necessary in the intermediate or- 
chards, — those on the zone lying between the two extreme types 
just described. Occasionally this intermediate type of orchard will 
respond very strongly to fertilization, without necessarily showing 
the characteristic marks, as is essentially illustrated in the Johnston 
orchard. 

A General Fertilizer Recommendation for Apples. 

For preliminary use in such cases, and for permanent use on 
the part of those who are unable to carry out such a local test as 
is shown later, we are now recommending the general fertilizer 
indicated in Table VI. The fertilizers are stated in amounts per 



70 



acre rather than in amounts per tree, because of the varying num- 
bers of trees that are planted on an acre. The amounts per tree for 
any particular case are readily obtainable, however, by dividing the 
present amounts by the given number of trees per acre. With young 
trees the amounts may be reduced approximately in proportion 
to the area covered, making this area correspond with that of the 
roots so far as possible. 

Table VI. A General Fertilizer for Apple Orchards. 

(Amounts per Acre for Bearing Trees.) 



Nitrogen 
30 lb. (N) 



Phosphoric acid 
50 lb. (P2O5) 



Carried in 



Carried in 



100 lb. Nitrate and 150 350 lb. Acid Phos. 
lb. D. Blood. 

or in 

or in 

200 lb. bone meal. 

150 lb. Ammon. Sul- 
fate, or in. 



Potash 
25 to 50 lb. (K2O) 

Carried in : 

50 to 100 lbs. Muriate. 

or in 

100 to 200 lb. low-grade 
Sulfate. 



300 lb. Basic Slag. 
For Young Orchards, reduce these amounts in proportion to area covered. 



This table means that a fertilizer carrying about 30 pounds of 
actual nitrogen, 50 pounds of actual phosphoric acid and 25 to 50 
pounds of actual potash should be applied on an acre of bearing 
trees. Where potash is not known to be lacking the smaller amount 
may be used, or after a little testing it may even be omitted entirely. 
With the smaller amount of potash, the essentials of the present 
combination are carried in 500 pounds of a 6-10-5 fertilizer, and 
with the larger amount they are carried in the same weight of a 
6-10-10 fertilizer or its equivalent. In the usual ready-mixed ferti- 
lizers, the nitrogen is likely to be carried in ammonium sulfate, 
with which some liming may be necessary if many applications are 
made, and especially if leguminous cover crops or permanent covers 
are desired. In special or in homemade mixtures, the various ele- 
ments may be carried in any of the materials indicated in the table. 

In our work the nitrogen is carried in the combination of 
nitrate of soda and dried blood indicated in the table. This com- 
bination carries about equal amounts of nitrogen in each material, 
and it thus gives a quick action as well as one that is prolonged 
well through the season. The nitrogen, being the costliest and most 
active ingredient, requires close watching and possible variations 
in amount, in order to get the most out of it. It may also be secured, 
wholly or in part, by the use of stable manure or leguminous cover 
crops where they are available. With the other carriers indicated 
in the table, we have very little evidence on their relative values 



71 



as yet and hence those that are actually least expensive or most 
convenient should be chosen. All applications should be made an- 
nually, subject to the variations indicated below. 

Time and Method of Application. 

The time of application we believe to be of distinct importance, 
especially in the case of nitrates. While our evidence on this is 
by no means complete, yet there are good indications that nitrates 
can easily be applied too early in the season and thus be wholly 
lost to the trees. Other evidence leads to the opinion that distinct 
harm may result from their application about fruit-setting time, — 
especially in the case of the peach. We feel, therefore, that the 
nitrates should be applied not earlier than petal-fall in apples and 
probably not later than the middle of July. In general, about the 
middle of this period should be very good, though some of our best 
results have come from applications made as late as the 8th of July. 

With the peach in Missouri, Dr. Whitten reports that the time 
of application is very important and that very large increases in 
yield have been obtained from moderate quantities of nitrate of 
soda alone when ''applied at the right time."* This is considered 
to be "after the main length growth has taken place in early sum- 
mer." Such applications kept the trees from going into the rest 
period too early, and maintained a green and healthy condition 
throughout late summer and autumn without renewing the growth 
in twig length. It may also be noted that in the English work, at 
the Woburn Experimental Fruit Farm, July applications proved 
beneficial, while those made in February were of no avail. 

An incidental advantage of the delayed application appears in 
the fact that it gives an opportunity to vary its rate somewhat in 
accord with the size of the crop set on the trees. When the crop 
is light, much smaller applications are required, because of the 
natural tendency of the trees to develop a sufficient number of 
fruit buds in the off season. Proper utilization of this fact should 
save much in a series of years, and also enable one to secure the 
maximum return for the fertilization applied. 

In the case of the mineral ingredients, with their lower solu- 
bility and slower action, the time of application is less important. 
Some of the most careful observers in commercial work regularly 
apply their phosphates and potash in the fall on their peach or- 
chards, and believe that this gives best results. Thus far, however, 
we have felt that the time of application for the minerals is of 
relatively little importance, since they are rather quickly fixed in the 
soil, in any case, and they do not leach readily. We therefore, apply 
them along with the nitrogen, at the time we consider best for it. 

The method of application that we have followed is merely 
to scatter the fertilizer or manure broadcast over the surface of 



*See Proceedings of the Society for Horticultural Science 191 1, p. 37. 



72 



the ground, taking care not to get it too close to the tree trunk 
where there are few absorbent roots, and extending the applications 
well out beyond the spread of the branches. To conform more 
closely with the distribution of feeding roots, the rate of application 
is made heaviest in the central part of this area, or in general it 
is applied heaviest under the outer two-thirds of the spread of the 
branches. This fertilization may either be left on the surface to 
be washed in by the rains or it may be harrowed or lightly plowed 
into the soil. With all this done, it should be remembered that 
the fertilizer applied in any given season can hardly materially 
affect the yield in that year, since the fruit buds are formed in 
the latter part of the preceding season. Important results therefore, 
should not be expected before the following season, at the earliest, 
and as indicated in some of our experiments, they may not appear 
until considerably later and still prove of value. 

Determining the Actual Needs of an Orchard. 

The general fertilizer formula indicated above is for use only 
until the exact needs of the particular orchard can be determined. 
In other words, it is intended to meet only immediate demands. 
If in the meantime one washes really to answer the question of how 
to fertilize his own orchard, he can do so by following the plan out- 
lined in Table VII. This plan is especially adapted to the needs of 
commercial orchardists and to "community" tests on the part of the 
smaller growers. 

Table VII. Plan for Local Orchard-Fertilizer Test. 

(Pounds for a Mature Tree in Bearing.) 

1 Check. Untreated. 

2 Niter, 2^ lb. ; D. Blood, 31^ lb. ; Ac. Phos. 10 lb. 

3 Niter, 2^ lb.; D. Blood, 3^^ lb.; Potash 2 lb. 

4 Acid Phos. 10 lb. ; Potash 2 lb. 

5 Check. 

6 Niter,*2i^ lb.; D. Blood, 3^ lb.; Ac. Phos. 10 lb.; Potash 2 lb. 

7 Same as VI, plus Lime, 12 to 25 lb. 

8 Manure, 400 lb. 

9 Check. 

This plan should be located in a typical part of the orchard, 
and should include not less than five average trees of the same 
variety and age, in each plot. All the trees should be labeled and 
carefully measured at a fixed point on the trunk, and definite 
records of their growth and yields should be kept for at least three 
years. Frequently good indications of the orchard's needs may be 
obtained in less time than this, as is shown above in the Johnston 
and Brown orchards, but at least this amount of time should be al- 
lowed and more should be used when necessary. 

The same time and methods of application and other precau- 
tions should be followed as described above. The materials are 



73 



indicated here in amounts per bearing tree instead of per acre as 
above and the same reductions should be made for younger trees. 
In other words, if only a third of the ground is to be covered, then 
only about a third of these amounts should be used, if the rate of 
application is to be kept within proper bounds. 

These general precautions, together with the exercise of proper 
judgment on the part of the grower, are entirely sufficient to carry 
this plan to a successful conclusion and definitely settle the ferti- 
lizer needs of any ordinary orchard within a few years. If addi- 
tional rules and precautions are desired, however, they can be 
found in the Annual Report of the Pennsylvania State College for 
1910-11, pages 409-11. In addition, it should be remembered that 
an orchard may not show the need of a fertilizer when young, but 
may develop this need later, especially when heavy bearing is 
reached. This means that the cases that appear negative at any 
one time often need further tests and attention later. 



Discussion. 



E. C. Tyson. Would the result in the Brown experiment in- 
dicate that phosphoric acid might be eliminated from the applica- 
tions ? 

Dr. Stewart. No, it does not. It simply means that you are 
not likely to get the benefit from an application of phosphoric acid 
alone that you would when applied along with some other material, 
unless you should happen to have an abundance of all other neces- 
sary elements. Then you might get it by applying phosphoric acid 
alone. 

Mr. Bassett. Is that in Pennsylvania, Professor? 

Dr. Stewart. It was in one part of Pennsylvania. The soil 
in this particular case had been cropped heavily for a long time and 
was very much exhausted. I might say for Pennsylvania soils, 
however, that we have averaged about thirty bushels of wheat to 
the acre for the past twenty years on the College Farm that is run 
in connection with the Experiment Station, which will probably 
compare favorably with similar averages in any other state. 

Mr. Bassett. I was afraid you were slurring the state, that 
was all. 

Dr. Stewart. There is a difference in the way even good soil 
may be handled. Notice, however, that even in this soil, the best 
trees in the orchard are the ones planted in the old sod pasture 
with a spade. No cultivation before planting nor since. One 
hundred pounds of straw to the tree were used as a mulch for the 
first two years. Since that time the growth between the trees has 
been sufficient to maintain a mulch. These trees that were just 
planted in sod were not permitted to have grass growing over the 
roots, however, and that is the thing we must emphasize. Grass 
growing over tree roots is objectionable and is bound to stunt the 
trees. Where we have grass growing over tree roots we usually 



74 



get the poorest results that we can get anywhere. But where we 
keep the grass growth down with mulch without any cultivation, 
we get the excellent results you see here. 

This and other similar results raise the question as to whether 
we have not over-emphasized the necessity of stirring the soil about 
the roots of trees. The natural condition for tree growth is with 
an undisturbed root system, and it is a question whether the tillage 
of trees has not been over emphasized, especially so far as it applies 
to apple trees. 

Question. Does that hold good in peaches? 

Dr. Stewart. I would not want to say, because our opinion is 
that the peach needs tillage much more than the apple, and until we 
get some definite basis for changing that opinion we will let it stay 
as it is. I should not be surprised, however, in view of these results, 
that a person could also develop a very satisfactory system of 
mulching and fertilization for peaches as well as for apples. 

While we are on this question of young orchards and cover 
crops, I want to call your attention to some of the figures we have 
here. We have tried thirteen different cover crops with the results 
indicated on the chart. Notice the best of these has been alfalfa, 
when used as a permanent cover and a mulch. We do not let the 
alfalfa grow over the tree roots, however. You see the percent, of 
gain is 206. The next best is vetch which has 160%. The third 
in value to the trees is crimson clover ; fourth is rape, which we have 
recently changed to a combination of rape and cow-horn turnips. 
Then comes millet. Millet, I am inclined to think, has a lot of virtue 
as a cover crop that it has not been fully credited with. Some of 
these others, soy beans, etc., are far down in the list. 

Of course we can't guarantee that this will happen everywhere, 
but that is what is happening in our experiment at the Station. 
We are getting very good crops of the beans and also of cowpeas 
and other annals, but the trees are not showing any particular 
benefit from these crops, and the fact that the crops themselves are 
so good may help to explain what has checked the growth of the 
trees. 

Vetch comes out just as expected. It is much superior to the 
other annual covers, probably largely because its moisture draft is 
so low. It also fixes nitrogen from the air. 

W. E. Grove. Have these crops been fertilized? 

Dr. Stewart. They had one uniform fertilization and received 
an application of lime once. 

C.J.Tyson. Has the culture of the soil been uniform? 

Dr. Stewart. The culture of the soil has been uniform in all 
cases except alfalfa. The alfalfa is a mulch proposition and was 
cultivated but once, at the beginning of the experiment, to get the 
alfalfa started. 

R. A. Wickersham. Are these crops ever allowed to grow 
over the roots ? 



75 



Dr. Stewart. Yes, in the case of the annual covers, they grow 
up pretty close to the trees. That is as close as ordinary crops are 
usually sown. 

In this connection it seems to me one of the most important 
things we can do now is to work with different plants to find out 
which is the best one to grow as a permanent cover crop. That is, 
to find out which is the best crop to grow in connection with the 
mulch system, and how best to handle it. 

R. A. Wickersham. Do you leave all the alfalfa lay where it 
drops ? 

Dr. Stew^art. We do not leave any of it remain where it drops. 
We rake it up and put most of it around the trees. When we get 
too much to put around the trees it is hauled away. 

Mr. Bassett. What percent, of the total nitrate and minerals 
required by the fruit is contained in the seed? 

Dr. Stewart. I can't answer that. I have collected analyses 
of fruit and its parts from all over the world, and none of them 
have distinguished the seed composition sufficiently well to enable 
one to answer your question accurately. It is safe to say that the 
percent, is comparatively high, however. 

Mr. Bassett. If the fertilizing value is in the seed, then does 
not a bushel of cider apples really reduce the fertility more than a 
bushel of fancy apples? I want to prove that it pays to thin fruit. 
I want to establish that idea. 

Dr. Stewart. You are quite right about that, in my judgment. 



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76 



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WE JUSTLY CLAIM that there are 
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are put up in GOOD, STRONG SACKS. 



PEACH PACKING AND PACKAGES. 



Pro^. M. a. BIvAKK. 



Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen: 

I think I would like to change the wording of my topic a little, 
to "Harvesting and Packing of Peaches." As our time is short, I 
will try to cut my talk down and make it as brief as I can. 

First, I would say that the work the Experiment Station has 
been doing in New Jersey, in regard to peach growing in that state, 
is to try to solve the problems of peach growing. The station has 
peach orchards in two different parts of the state. We pick, pack, 
and market the fruit, the returns come into the state and are turned 
over to the state. We do not pretend to say that all of these prob- 
lems we try to solve are new. In fact, all of them are pretty largely 
handled by the fruit grower. The idea is to help the average man 
and to try to help the leading man in every way possible. Try to 
co-operate with them and we think that is the best method to accom- 
plish results. 

When it comes to the harvesting, marketing, and packing ques- 
tion, of course we must say that the locality has a good deal to do 
with the problem, so that these remarks that I will make this after- 
noon are given to you for what they are worth. And if I give you 
an idea here and there that will do you some good I shall be glad 
of it. 

Peaches can be graded and packed in the open air without shel- 
ter, but to my mind, if one has an orchard of any size, it is necessary 
to have a packing-house, not only because you are protected from 
the rain, but because the work can be done much more rapidly and 
cheaper. 

One thing that has been found in some of our local markets in 
New Jersey, is that too little attention is paid by fruit growers to 
the uniform ripeness, grade and quality of fruit sold. We all know 
that the perfect peach is only secured by being fully ripened on the 
tree. The peach must be ripe before it is picked to have the full 
flavor. 

I have gone into markets in local towns in New Jersey where 
there would be peaches that would not be ripe for a week and some 
would be over-ripe in the same basket. This is not advertising our 
home-grown crop in the right way. It is often necessary to sell the 
second grade fruit in the local market because it is not worth while 
to ship it, but it should nevertheless be graded according to maturity, 
size and quality. Where large quantities of fruit are shipped it is 
often impossible to get the highest grade of fruit grown in that 
locality. It is easy to tell by the color of the fruit when it is ready 



* 



77 



78 



to pick. We have had some experience in hiring Italians to pick 
peaches, and it seems to be the rule with those we are able to obtain 
in southern New Jersey that they want to test the maturity of the 
fruit by pinching with the fingers and we find it a problem to get 
them to pick it according to its color. 

The common commercial package that has been used in New 
Jersey for a good many years, is the so-called Delaware peach 
basket, as illustrated by Fig. i. This package, however, is going 
out of use in New Jersey, especially the southern part of the state, 
except where they can haul the peaches in to market by team, such 
as to Philadelphia and other points. 

Let us consider for a moment the qualities desired in a com- 
mercial package for shipping. First, the package should be cheap; 
in the second place, it should be light, and it should be strong and 
durable. A package that is easily opened or broken into is not de- 
sirable. Fruit in a package of such size that it can be thrown easily 
from one man to another is more likely to be damaged than fruit 
in a heavier package. The box and the basket should be arranged 
somewhat, the grade should be the same all the way through. Often- 
times the commercial package of a district is the package used for 
picking. The objections to the Delaware peach basket as a shipping 
package or for a picking package, are that the baskets are not al- 
ways well made, and accidents will occur; there is also a tendency 
to throw them sometimes when they are being loaded into a car 
rapidly. And when it comes to the matter of a cover for shipping 
this package, a burlap or a wooden cover is used. I think that the 
burlap cover should be discarded in all cases, unless for a local 
market. I have seen baskets of peaches ready for market, piled one 
above another with nothing between the fruit in the top of one 
basket and the wooden bottom of another except the burlap. The 
wooden cover is much to be preferred to the burlap cover as it will 
give more protection to the surface of the fruit. 

Fig. 2 illustrates the Delaware basket with a so-called wooden 
cover. This cover will protect the top of the fruit much better than 
burlap, and is less easily removed in transit, but in order to prevent 
this package being slack when it goes into the market, it has to be 
very full and tightly packed. From the standpoint of the New York 
market, this package is not very well liked by the New York com- 
mission men. The same grade of fruit in this commercial package 
will not sell as well as in the Georgia carrier. On an average we 
have found that when a basket will sell for 75 cents the same grade 
of fruit will sell at from $1.50 to $1.75 in the Georgia carrier. 

The Climax basket. Fig. 3, is another package used for peaches, 
and probably more in Ontario, Canada, than elsewhere. This pack- 
age is easily opened and is not very satisfactory as a shipping pack- 
age. 

Fig. 4 illustrates the so-called bushel basket package. We have 
used it somewhat experimentally but it does not serve the purpose 
as a shipping package for New Jersey conditions. Too large a bulk 



Fig. I. Delawarf axd Jersey Baskets Fiixed With Elberta 
Peaches. 




Fig. 2. Dei^avvare and Jersey Baskets, With Wooden Covers. 



Fig. 3. Typks of Climax Baskets. 




Fig. 4. BusHiiL Basket Package. 



79 



of fruit is contained in one space and the covers are sometimes re- 
moved and the fruit stolen. 

Some fruit has been shipped from our experiment orchards in 
the California fruit crate, illustrated by Fig. 5. This is a style of 
package where the individual fruit receives attention. The pack is 
the same all the way through and every peach must be the same 
grade and size to make a desirable pack. Commission men have told 
us that it did not sell well when used for eastern grown peaches, 
and that in the New York market the people believed it was Cali- 
fornia fruit, and that the Georgia carrier was to be preferred. So 
far as the prices we received for fruit in this package were con- 
cerned, however, they were practically the same as we received for 
the same grade of fruit in Georgia carriers. 

Fig. 6 illustrates the Georgia peach carrier with which you are 
all familiar. This package has been gradually taken up by the 
growers in the southern part of New Jersey as the best shipping 
package. These packages as they come packed with fruit from 
Georgia, contain six baskets. The fruit stand men usually take the 
fruit out of these six baskets and fill up seven smaller tills. These 
carriers, as they come from the south, are new, and when the fruit 
man takes the fruit out as soon as received, they are hardly stained 
and are in good condition. These crates prove a bargain to some 
peach growers about New York and Philadelphia because they can 
secure them from 5 to 6 cents each. 

When the matter of packing peaches in such package as the 
California fruit crate or the Georgia carriers is considered, we 
need to have fruit that is of the same size and grade. If we have 
large, small and medium sized fruit on the same tree and harvested 
at the same time, the work is necessarily slow. We need to grow 
fruit of uniform size to have it pack well. One of the first things to 
consider is the thickness of the setting of the fruit on the trees. I 
have in mind a grower in New Jersey who had a tremendous crop 
last season. The trees were planted 22 feet apart each way six years 
ago and this year the trees were simply bent double with the crop be- 
fore the fruit began to color. He was inclined to thin the fruit, but 
was persuaded by others not to do so, with the result that he had a 
hard task tying the trees up so that they would not be ruined by 
breakage, and the fruit was not nearly as large as it should have 
been. When we have a heavy set of fruit on the trees it ought to 
be thinned. In most cases we can say that no two fruits should be 
closer than four inches apart. Some varieties, however, are much 
smaller than others, and need to be thinned even more severely. I 
do not mean to recommend thinning where there is only an occa- 
sional cluster of fruit upon the tree, but where there is a good set 
of fruit through the tree in general, thinning should be resorted to. 
The work of thinning should be done about the time of the so-called 
"June drop," when we can determine which fruits are weakly pol- 
linated, or affected with curculio or have been blemished in some 
manner. It is very easy to thin the fruit upon well pruned trees. 



8o 



Thinning often seems like a waste of fruit, but the specimens left 
on the tree will be of much larger size, and this becomes especially 
important when there is a large crop and prices are low except for 
the best grades. 

Fig. 7 illustrates average fruits taken from thinned and un- 
thinned Greensboro trees a season when prices were not very high. 
The large fruit at the right in Fig. 7 sold readily but the small sized 
fruit from the unthinned trees at the left was hard to move. Un- 
questionably, thinning is an important part of the peach business. 
Fruit properly thinned, especially the Elberta, will nearly all pack 
into the same grade. I have seen lots of Elbertas packed in New 
Jersey and some in Georgia, where at least 75 per cent, of the fruit 
would all go into one grade. 

I hope that few of you have trouble with peach scab in this 
vicinity. We know that this can be controlled by proper spraying 
with self-boiled lime-sulphur. Wherever there is scab there is 
likely to be considerable brown rot also, and this of course adds to 
the number of culls on the packing table. 

The following system of summer spraying is now generally 
practiced by successful growers in southern JsTew Jersey. Arsenate 
of lead, 3 pounds to 50 gallons of water, just as the petals fall. A 
second spraying of arsenate of lead and self-boiled lime-sulphur is 
given just as the calyx is being shed from the fruit. Where there 
is much injury by curculio, the first spraying is quite important, for 
as soon as the peach reaches the size of a large green pea so that 
the calyx begins to come off, the curculio begins to feed. On 
varieties like Greensboro, that ripen early, two sprayings of self- 
boiled lime-sulphur three weeks apart are generally sufficient, but 
mid-season and late varieties should have at least three sprayings to 
prevent scab and rot. 

I took the opportunity this summer to visit the peach section 
of Fort Valley, Ga. I thought no better section could be selected 
to observe methods of packing and shipping. I was entertained by 
Mr. J. H. Hale and had a most pleasant and profitable trip. The 
land about Fort Valley is generally flat and easily cultivated. From 
my observations this valley appears to be the garden spot of 
Georgia. 

In the Fort Valley district a spur track is run out from Fort 
Valley to the large orchards and iced cars are delivered right at the 
packing houses. I found the general cultural and orchard manage- 
ment conditions there about the same as elsewhere. There are 
growers who fail to adopt the best methods, just as in other peach 
districts. There are growers about Fort Valley who fail to appre- 
ciate the importance of summer spraying, and in one large orchard 
which I saw, the fruit was badly scabbed and rotting rapidly. The 
weather conditions in the south this year were very favorable to rot, 
and this accounts for the fact that at times the market was very un- 
satisfactory, because much of the fruit would not stand up after it 
reached the dealer. 




Fig. 6. Georgia Peach Carrier. 



8i 



i 



The trees in Fort Valley district are pruned to form low heads, 
and when the fruit is ripe and the trees well loaded, the branches 
bend down and the fruit is picked from the ground. Colored labor 
is the help that is largely depended upon for picking, and in some 
cases for packing, and also for loading the cars. In Mr. Hale's 
orchard, at the time I visited it, there were about lOO college stu- 
dents employed, most of them from the University of Georgia. 
Many such boys work in the packing houses and are paid in such a 
manner that those who do well are encouraged to stay and by the 
time the main crop comes on most of the poor packers have left. 

Mr. Hale employs a ticket system to determine the amount of 
work done by each picker and grader, and when these tickets are 
checked up at the end of each day, the superintendent has a record 
of how many baskets each grader has handled, and how many 
baskets each girl and each man has picked. I tried the ticket 
system in the harvesting of our fruit in our experiment orchard 
at Vineland and found it a very good plan. Each picker had a 
card, and during the first day's picking, a basket of fruit reached 
the packing table which was too green, and by referring to the card 
in the basket we found it had been picked by No. 17. A little later 
another basket was found with the fruit somewhat green and the 
ticket showed picker No. 17. It was only necessary to shout out to 
the orchard foreman that No. 17 was picking the fruit too green. 
The man in charge of the packing house can tell exactly what sort 
of work each picker is doing. This system also seemed to bring out 
some rivalry among the pickers to see which could pick the most. 
We had one man as a picker who was a school teacher, and when the 
records were footed up each day we found that our school teacher 
was picking more peaches than any of the Italian pickers. 

I was somewhat surprised to find that most of the colored la- 
borers at Fort Valley seemed to receive practically as high wages as 
the Italian labor we have in southern New Jersey. I found some of 
the colored laborers at Mr. Hale's very bright. In taking a photo- 
graph of several men loading peaches upon a wagon, one of them re- 
marked, "Look out boss, don't take my feet or you won't have no 
picture." 

One of the important things in packing a Georgia carrier is 
to have it full enough to give the cover a noticeable bulge, a point 
which the amateur packer often fails to get onto. 

I want to bring up one or two suggestions with regard to the 
expenses of marketing peaches from various points. The distance 
from Fort Valley, Ga., is eleven or twelve hundred miles. The 
freight by the carload is about 55^ cents, the cost of icing would be 
about 16 cents, and cartage in New York about 5 cents. An empty 
crate in Georgia will cost not less than 15 cents, when nailing, label- 
ing, etc., is considered. Compare these expenses with those from 
Vineland, New Jersey, to New York. Distance to New York, about 
one hundred miles ; freight 14 cents ; cartage 5 cents. The crates, 
if new ones purchased from eastern dealers, might cost 20 cents, but 



82 



if they were ordered direct from the south by the carload, the cost 
might be cut down somewhat. 

Consider the difference in the cost of marketing peaches from 
these different points. There is much complaint here in the eastern 
districts about southern and western competition, but a glance at the 
above figures will show that the grower at a distance is under heavy 
shipping expenses, and the eastern grower really has a marked ad- 
vantage. 

I have tried to encourage peach growers to form organizations 
whether they did any buying and selling or not, simply for mutual 
benefit. Growers about Hammonton did so, and a little later in the 
summer, at the time of peach shipping, they complained of the 
freights being very late. 

I suggested that the association take up the matter with the 
railroad and to write to the Experiment Station giving us details, 
and we would take it up with the railroad also. This was done and 
about three or four weeks later I wrote to the President of the Asso- 
ciation and asked him about results. He said that the freight serv- 
ice had been so much better that he had written the freight agent a 
complimentary letter. The desired results were accomplished by a 
proper presentation of facts to the railroad. It seems to me that if 
all of us who are interested in these things in any one state would 
co-operate and take them up in the proper way, we could accomplish 
the desired results. 

The Georgia carrier to one who has never packed it may seem 
to be a formidable package, but it is a good deal like the apple box. 
We need to know how to pack it and just what pack to use and then 
it is not so difficult. 

In most of the packing houses the packer simply packs. The 
empty crates are piled up behind him, and as soon as he packs a 
crate he sets it down on the floor and some one else takes it away. 
He takes an empty crate from the pile and goes on packing. The 
packers should be under the ticket system also. First class packers 
are said to be able to pack 200, 225, and sometimes 250 crates a day 
of eleven hours, at Fort Valley. The men whom we employ in 
our experiment orchards at Vineland averaged at the rate of 280 to 
300 crates a day of ten hours, when packing Elbertas the past season. 

Fig. 8 illustrates the 2-1 three tier pack. This pack does not 
look quite as compact as some of the straight packs, but will insure 
the arrival of the fruit in better condition. Fig. 6 illustrates the 2-2 
three tier pack which is desirable for the medium grades. The 2-1 
pack is the best style for the larger fruit. No straight packs should 
be used for peaches in Georgia carriers. 

The question has come to us a number of times as to whether it 
would pay to wrap peaches, so we wrapped several lots and sent 
them to market to see what the result would be, but failed to get a 
much better price. If we were sending a special package a long 
distance, perhaps the wrapping would help to protect the fruit, but 
under present conditions I do not think it will pay in the east. 



83 



The question of labels is another important matter in peach 
packing and marketing. We encourage our growers in New Jer- 
sey to use labels. I know from experience that a label is very de- 
sirable if one is selling uniform and high grade fruit. 

As I stated at the beginning of my lecture, some of these mar- 
keting methods that have been discussed may not apply to your con- 
ditions, but I trust that they have been interesting and will stimu- 
late new thoughts and ideas. 



Question. — What is your formula for self-boiled lime-sulphur? 

Prof. Blake. — I use the standard 8-8-50 formula, that is 8 
pounds of lime, 8 pounds of sulphur and 50 gallons of water. It 
is always prepared, however, in quantities of about three or four 
times the standard formula. 



ESTABLISHED 1850 1.200 ACRES 

TREES 



WE ARE WHOLESALE GROWERS OF 

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IN LARGE QUANTITIES 

The BEST is the CHEAPEST. Ours is the CHEAPEST because it is 
the BEST. Handling Dealers' orders a specialty. 

Franklin Davis Nursery Company 

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND 



84 



THE WICKERSHAM NURSERIES 

R. A. WICKERSHAM, Proprietor 
MECHANICSBURG. PA. 




Specialties 

Peach and Apple Trees 

WE HAVE WHAT YOU 
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It will be to your interest to see or write us. 
If not sure that 

OUR TREES ARE BEST 

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Trolley from Harrisburg and Mechanicsburg 
Every Half Hour ::: Stop at Nursery 



GRAPE GROWING AND ITS POSSIBILITIES ON A GEN- 
ERAL FRUIT FARM. 



Mr. Lloyd S. Tknny. 



Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen: 

1 come with a little hesitancy to talk to you on the culture of the 
grape. It is not one of our large crops. However, as I understand 
the conditions in this county, you are not contemplating going into 
the grape industry on a large commercial scale. It is a question of 
the possibilities of the small vineyard for home use. It is along that 
line that I am going to give you a sort of a rambling talk this after- 
noon. 

First, as to soil : you will need a well drained soil. After that 
you have said about all that is necessary. Some of the very best 
vineyards are on soil we would call comparatively heavy. Our vine- 
yards at home are on a soil of this quality. I have never been able 
to see that the quality which we have been able to produce is infer- 
ior on account of the type of soil we have. So I say if you have a 
soil on which the peach or many varieties of apples will do well, 
you have a soil which will answer well for grape growing. 

Varieties. — There is no fruit that offers greater possibilities 
for one who loves varieties than grapes. It is a fruit that takes 
but little room, the number and wealth of varieties is immense, and 
if you desire to encourage the love of classification of fruits in 
yourself and children, there is absolutely no fruit that will surpass 
the grape. We have difference in color an difference in the type 
of growth. There are shades and delicacies of flavor, hard to surpass, 
in the grape. Commercially I would advise just about two varieties 
of grapes for our locality. I would say 75% of the vines should be 
Concord and the other 25% should be Niagara. I appreciate the 
fact that some would change that around, and some would put 50% 
of each and some would add other varieties. I am talking from my 
own personal knowledge. These two are more easily grown than 
most of the other varieties and the net returns are decidedly the 
best. The Concord will bring more money. However, the Niagara 
crowds it closely, and on some soils you can get larger clusters 
and a better type of fruit. The Niagara is the leading white grape 
and the Concord the black one. 

Here are some other varieties — The Delaware does splendidly 
in some localities and the Catawba does well in places. It is a late 
grape and if you have difficulty in ripening the Salway peach you 
might have difficulty in ripening the Catawba grape. Rogers va- 
rieties are subject to diseases and are difficult to grow, and I would 
advise amateurs at least to keep away from most of the Rogers 



8s 



86 



varieties. The Hartford Prolific is planted in some localities, but 
I would not advise it. There are, as I say, a host of other varieties. 
I would stick to the old time variety — the Concord — adding as I 
saw fit more or less of the Niagara. 

The vines should be planted in the spring. We get good strong 
vines, usually two years of age. A few years ago we secured two- 
year Concord plants for ic. each. You cannot do that now, but the 
price is not large. Plant comparatively deep. Have the soil just 
as you should have it for all sorts of fruit, in a fine condition, so 
that the plants may readily take root. 

That means a moist soil. I have seen vineyards put out in a 
very dry condition, where it was necessary to carry a little moist 
earth to put around the roots. The hole was then filled with earth 
that was almost dry. As to distance apart, possibly I will not give 
what would be the best distances to plant the vineyard commercially, 
but I should say that the rows in your vineyard should be amply 
wide to allow a spring-tooth harrow to go through between the 
rows with two feet to spare. That will give you seven or eight 
feet distance in the rows. About eight feet is my preference be- 
tween the rows. Personally, I believe in giving all of our fruit a 
good deal of space. You will get finer fruit and your yield per acre 
will be larger if you do not crowd your vines and trees. 

Some people get along permanently without trellises. For the 
first two years you can tie the vines to a stake, but by the beginning 
of the third year you should have a wire and post trellis. You can 
find many different methods, consequently you will find some people 
training to one wire, some to three wires, some even using as high 
as five wires. I have seen quite extensive commercial vineyards 
where as high as five wires were used. I prefer either the two or 
the three wire trellis. To persons who desire to grow fancy fruit 
I should advise the three wire method. 

Just a word as to how to construct the trellis. The first wire 
will be two feet from the ground, the second will be 20 inches 
above, and the third wire about 20 inches above that, that would 
bring the top wire somewhere in the neighborhood of 5 feet. 

Some portions of the stem are perennial and from these parts 
there are grown each year, the canes which will bear the fruit. The 
perennial parts remain an indefinite time, some times as long as 
thirty years or even more. We have them as old as this in our own 
vineyards and I cannot see but that these old portions produce as 
healthy bearing wood as the young vines. Let me repeat that the 
fruit is borne on parts of the vines which grew the year preceding. 
There is a portion of each vine which does not bear the fruit but 
which produces the wood each year and it is on this wood that the 
fruit is. 

With the three wire system, the perernial part of the vine 
comes to the lower wire and here divides, one old cane going to the 
right for about four feet and another part going to the left for an 
equal distance. On the the right hand portion two canes are left 



87 



each spring which will produce the fruit on that half of the vine. 
These canes extend from the perennial part, which runs along the 
bottom wire, in an upw^ard direction to the top wire. The two 
bearing branches will be about two feet apart. The perennial por- 
tion on the left side will also have two bearing canes on it, making 
four in all for the vine. About half way between these four canes 
will be four other new growing canes each summer, which in turn 
will become the bearing wood the following summer. No doubt 
many of you will wonder if these four canes will produce enough 
fruit to make it worth the while. As a matter of fact, too much 
fruit will be produced on them and it will be necessary to thin out 
some of the clusters in the early part of the summer. Once again 
^et me impress this fact upon you. A single vine will need no more 
than four bearing canes, each cane being about four feet in length. 
Each summer must see four new canes being grown on each vine 
to replace the four then producing the fruit. It is a continuous 
process. 

Pruning. — Prune early in the spring before the vine has made 
any growth. The pruning consists largely in cutting out the por- 
tion of the vine which produced the fruit the preceding year. In 
pruning, it is necessary to see that the four new canes are present 
and in case there have been others growing, these should be cut out 
when we prune. In cutting off the canes that produced the fruit 
the year before, it is well to leave one bud, which will furnish the 
growing part for the following summer. 

In the spring, after your trellis has been repaired, your posts 
reset and wires tightened, you tie those four canes to the horizontal 
wires. Tie first to the top wire. In former years we used four-ply 
twine. We tied the cane sufficiently tight with the four-ply twine 
so that it will not move with the shaking of the wind. However, 
in recent years we have replaced the four-ply twine with a very fine 
stove-pipe wire. I have not seen that used very much in the com- 
mercial vineyard, but it has proven satisfactory with us. We hold 
one end close to the wire and wind it first around the wire and then 
twice around the vine and wire. We buy the wire in the rolls and 
have them cut into three sections. This gives us a wire about 6 
inches in length. After tying the top, then we go through, taking a 
four-ply string and tying tightly around the middle wire sufficiently 
tight to keep it from swaying with the wind. 

Let me give you another system of training your vines. This 
is a two-wire system. It is a little bit more economical in building 
the trellis, which instead of having our perennial part horizontally 
placed, we put it up to the top wire. Now that is perennial and does 
not bear fruit. We leave that there from year to year, and along the 
lower wire, running to the right 4 feet, we have a young cane to 
produce the fruit, and also on the left a young cane comes out 
to produce fruit. Along the top wire we have a similar cane. 
This is just turning the process around. The bearing wood is 
wound loosely around these wires and tied, to keep it from unwind- 



88 



ing. Now, the objection to this system is this: there is a tendency 
for all the fruit and the young growth to become tangled around the 
horizontal wire instead of hanging free where they may be cut 
easily in the fall without being torn to pieces. 

In the upright system, you have the fruit hanging over a greater 
surface, freer and more apart from the other bunches, and it is 
more easily sprayed, so that in general you are getting a finer type 
of fruit with that system than under the old time two wire system. 

When the growth starts in the spring there is too much growth 
there, and you have to do a process of summer pruning. The 
grape is one of the things that we do prune in the summer. Usually 
two buds, or sometimes three buds are starting to grow, and we 
do not want but one there. We have a process called rubbing off, 
whereby all the growing shoots but one are taken off. 

The grape is peculiar in that the fruit produced next season 
is on wood that is not yet grown. These upright canes produce 
the fruit but they do not produce it directly. They will produce 
it by sending out laterals. After those laterals have grown out a 
leaf, they put out a fruit bud, then they send out another leaf and 
another fruit bud. 

Each bud will put out a good normal shoot, which, under good 
conditions will produce two, three, or even four clusters of grapes. 
Now, if you want to produce fancy fruit, all of these clusters ex- 
cept one or two should be rubbed off. The three and four clusters 
usually are small ones, and if you allow them to go on to maturity 
the grapes will not be large. If you want to you can figure how 
many clusters you are going to have on your vine. You have four 
canes each about four feet in length. If the nodules are about 
six inches apart on each one of the canes, you would have about 
seven or more laterals coming out, and on each of those you will 
have two clusters, so you would have somewhere from twelve to 
fourteen or even twenty clusters on a cane, making from sixty to 
eighty clusters per vine. If those are large clusters you are going 
to have a pretty large yield. That is the fruit that is usually mark- 
eted. Let me urge the importance of growing large clusters. 

Cultivation. — You must have a very thorough clean cultiva- 
tion; you cannot grow grapes in sod. I have never yet seen a 
section or a locality where you could grow grapes successfully in 
sod. They need thorough cultivation. Have all your winter prun- 
ing done before the buds have pushed out any. The vines are very 
subject to bleeding. Like the maple the sap flows out very abund- 
antly. But it does not do that if the trimming is done before the 
growth starts. Cultivate once a week whether it rains or not. If 
you should have a light shower after you cultivate, cultivate again, 
so that you always have a dust mulch over the surface of your soil. 
The grape needs lots of water in the soil. I do not believe there 
is anything more I need say with regard to the cultivating methods. 
A word or two in regard to the diseases and method of spraying. 



89 



We are fortunate in our locality not to have many grape dis- 
eases, so I can't give you very much information along that line. 
I remember though as a small boy that it was about the time that 
the black rot of the grape manifested itself in the country and 
wrought such havoc, and we knew no method of controlling it for 
several years. As a youth, I had to go out to pick off the rotten 
grapes. We would put them in a bag, empty them in a basket at 
the end, and take them off and burn them. We took every precau- 
tion we knew how to take without avail. We now know that black 
rot can be controlled by Bordeaux mixture. Bordeaux mixture 
will control it absolutely. We cannot use the commercial lime-sul- 
phur spray in the vineyard as the grape is more susceptible to 
injury than peach foliage. I have not tried self-boiled lime-sulphur. 
Do not know with what success it has been tried. I am of the 
opinion it has never been very successful. 

There are certain other diseases that occasionally get into the 
vineyards and are very serious. We do not have them in our lo- 
cality. I cannot tell you definitely how to control them from my 
practical experience. 

Marketing. — If you begin to harvest your York Imperial 
apples about the first of October, Concord and Niagara would begin 
to ripen about the first of September. However, the summer 
weather very materially affects the ripening of the grape. 

We continue to harvest all through September till frost comes. 
It is not uncommon for a vineyard with fruit still on to be caught 
with an early frost. Late spring frosts, in some localities, do a great 
deal of damage. If the little buds are killed in the spring, you are 
killing in a large measure, the crop for that season. The grape is 
not so delicate, however, as the peach, with regard to spring frost. 

You do not pick the grapes all at one time, you pick over the 
vineyard several times. You pick as to ripeness, and that means 
when the color has reached the standard for that variety. The 
grape will not ripen any at all after it is severed from the vine. 
You must allow it to ripen on the vine in order to produce good 
quality. It is like the peach in that respect, probably more so. 

Your method of picking will almost entirely depend upon your 
marketing facilities. Now, with us, our fruit goes direct on wagons 
to the Rochester market, consequently we do not do any packing at 
all. We pick in i8 or 20 lb. market baskets without any grading 
only as we grade when we pick. Our pickers know that the very 
poor clusters are to be left on the vine. The clusters are simply 
laid in the market basket, until it is rounding full. That is a 
simple and cheap method. Some people pack in smaller baskets. 
Some in two or three pound splint baskets. They take them into 
^market and sell to grocerymen in a basket that is retailed to the 
consumer. The fruit in the larger baskets is sold to the consumer by 
the pound. If, on the other hand, you ship by railroad, you must 
use the Climax basket with a wooden cover. Load it in the car in 



qo 

that way. The basket that is more often used is the small 4 or 5 lb. 
Climax basket. 

A fair yield with us is 18 tons of grapes from about 5 acres. 
It has not been uncommon in the past for us to run over that, and 
it is not uncommon for us to run down to 15 tons. If you sell in 
bulk and allow the buyer to pack, as is done in some localities, you 
cannot afford to grow them for less than $35.00 or $40.00 per ton. 
However, $30.00 per ton with a big crop, probably will bring a 
larger return to the farmer than wheat or general fruit crops. 
When you get above S40.00 your returns, of course, are good, and 
if you can get $50.00 the profits are splendid. 

The grape is a fruit that is easily handled as to the fertility of 
the soil. Thorough cultivation with an occasional cover crop, will 
maintain the fertility of the soil for 40 or 45 years. 

Question. What do you fertilize with? 

Mr. Tenny. That is a very good question which I neglected 
to cover. Not a pound of commercial fertilizer and only an occa- 
sional thin coating of stable manure has been used in our vineyards 
for over 40 years. 

W. H. Black. What is the best variety for early use? 

Mr. Tenny. I think that the best we have on our place is 
Moore's Early. 

The Brighton is a very good grape. It is rather delicate with 
us to market. It is a little subject to cracking and liable to rot. 
The clusters are very large. The Worden is another fine black grape. 
If you are going to have a home vineyard the \\^orden should be in 
it. You cannot ship the W^orden by freight successfully. 

J. W. Prickett. When is the proper time to spray to prevent 

rot? 

Mr. Tenny. Begin soon after the growth starts and keep it up. 
If you have rot in your vineyard, spray as frequently as once every 
week or ten days. If you do not have the rot, two or three spray- 
ings during the season would keep your grapes in good condition. 
Some advise spraying in the dormant season with lime-sulphur. 
We have so few diseases that we have not thought it advisable to do 
that. 

J. W. Prickett. Does it control the rot, do you think, to spray 
in the dormant season? 

Mr. Tenny. I am afraid not. It might assist in controlling it, 
but you could not depend on it. If you have the rot bad in your 
vineyard it is a question of eternal vigilance. 

M. E. Tyson. How about a little green bug that attacks the 
vine and eats out the bud? 

Mr. Tenny. It is probably the flea beetle. It is a bright bluish 
green in color. Arsenate of lead will control it at 2 lbs to 50 gallons 
of water. 



THE CHESTNUT BLIGHT. 



Mr. Keller E. Rockey, in charge of Demonstration Work, Penn- 
sylvania Chestnut Tree Blight Commission. 

In 1904 the diseased condition of the chestnut trees around 
New York City was noted, and an examination of them showed that 
they were being attacked by a fungus disease which was unknown at 
that time. It has since been found that the disease had been present 
there and elsewhere for some years before that time, but is impos- 
sible to determine when it first appeared. The disease was studied 
and classified during the winter of that year. It was placed in the 
genus Diaporthe and nam.ed Diaporthe Parasitica, making it a new 
species of a genus which contained only harmless fungi. The dis- 
ease is commonly called the ''chestnut blight" or the "chestnut 
canker disease." It is a fungus or a low order of plant life which 
grows upon the cells of the bark and to some extent the wood of the 
chestnut tree. The disease advances in each direction, the tissues of 
the cells are broken down, the flow of sap is cut oflf, and the tree 
killed by girdling. The disease is spread to other parts of the tree 
and to other trees by means of spores. These spores are of two 
kinds, called for convenience the summer and winter spores, al- 
though both types are produced to some extent at nearly all seasons 
of the year. The summer spores may be seen coming out from the 
pustules in small threads after the manner of paste squeezed from 
a tube. These threads are yellow, about one-quarter of an inch 
long, and are forced out shortly after a rain. These spores are 
readily dissolved in water and wash down the trees, infecting them in 
other places. They are sticky and carried, to some extent, by in- 
sects. The winter spores are shot out into the air when the bark is 
soaked after a rain and are disseminated chiefly by the wind. 

On display here are specimens and photographs showing the 
appearance of the blight so that I will not go into that part of the 
subject in detail. I hope, however, that you will notice: ist. The 
small, red pustules which bear the spores and appear only in the 
crevices of rough barked trees. 2d. The peculiar mottled appear- 
ance of the inner bark of the canker with the fan-shaped mycelium. 
By either of these characteristics, the disease may be identified. 

In scouting for the chestnut blight there are danger signals 
which make the work easier and more accurate. A canker, espe- 
cially on smooth bark, will very shortly discolor the outer bark, 
turning it from green to reddish brown tint. On young growth the 
cankers cause a hypertrophy or swelling which is very evident as 
you will see by the specimens. The bark over the cankers usually 
cracks open and a closer examination will reveal the pustules grow- 



91 



92 



ing in the crevices, or the characteristic inner bark. The most evi- 
dent danger signal, however, is the v^^ilting of the leaves upon 
branches v^hich have been girdled by the blight. As soon as the 
branch or tree is girdled the passage of v^^ater from the roots of the 
tree is shut off and the leaves begin to droop and soon take on their 
autumnal coloring. While a branch bearing v^^ithered leaves is not 
conclusive evidence that a tree is infected with the blight, such 
branches demand a closer inspection, and in the vicinity where the 
blight is working are nearly always caused by the disease. In the 
winter the same signal is observed in the withered leaves and un- 
developed burrs which persist on certain trees or branches. It has 
been found by our men that they can cover more ground and do bet- 
ter work after the leaves fall than in the summer, because the light 
shows up the cankers along the trunk, and the unusual branches, 
leaves and burrs are seen more clearly. Under a canker usually 
appear sprouts which are caused by the daming of the sap which is 
deflected to the growth of such sprouts. A small cluster of sprouts 
along the trunk of a tree is unusual unless the blight is at work im- 
mediately above. Further investigation will show whether or not 
this is the case. 

All of these features can be seen in the display and a careful 
examination of them will make any man competent to look over 
his timber and determine very closely the amount of infection on the 
trees. 

The Bureau of Plant Industry in Washington has been inves- 
tigating this disease since 1908. In the spring of 191 1, a bill for the 
investigation and control of the chestnut tree blight disease in Penn- 
sylvania was passed and the work began in August, 191 1. The 
method upon which the commission is working consists briefly in 
determining the area of blight infection and in removing diseased 
trees west of a certain line with the purpose of preventing the 
western spread of the blight. The commission has obtained as ac- 
curately as possible the amount of infection in the various parts of 
the State and the results are given in a map on display here. The 
State is divided into two districts by a line along the western edge of 
Susquehanna, Wyoming, Columbia, Union, Snyder, Juniata and 
Franklin Counties, which is approximately the western line of seri- 
ous blight infection. West of this line a large portion of the State 
has been scouted and the remainder will be finished early in 191 3. 
Blight infections have been found in counties adjacent to this line, 
also in Fayette County, near Connellsville, Warren County, near 
Warren, and in Elk County, near St. Mary's. These three infec- 
tions were directly traceable to infected nursery stock and in one 
case the blight had spread to adjacent trees. A large area of dis- 
eased chestnut in Somerset County illustrates the harm done by 
shipping infected nursery stock. The center of this infection is a 
chestnut orchard, where about 100 scions from an infected eastern 
orchard were grafted to native sprouts in 1908. Evidently these 
scions brought the disease into this region for the grafts have all 



93 



been killed by the blight and every tree in the orchard is killed or 
affected by the disease. On adjoining tracts over 5,400 infected 
trees have been cut and there are a number of others in process of 
removal, radiating in all directions from the orchard as a center 
to a distance of three miles. In other words, since 1908, the few- 
cases of infection brought into this orchard have spread three 
miles at least and more than 6,000 trees have become infected. 

Another infection of 143 trees was found in Elk County. 
These infections are interesting in showing the rate at which the 
blight may travel in healthy timber. It is thought that three trees 
at the center of infection were diseased in 1909, although it is pos- 
sible that one of these trees was already infected in 1908. In 1910, 
27 additional trees were infected; in 191 1, 50 additional trees, and 
in 1912, 228 additional trees. The disease spread in all directions 
from the center of infection to a distance of 700 feet. The same 
rapid spread has marked the progress of the blight everywhere. A 
few infected trees upon a tract will mean more infected trees in 
each successive year until the stand is completely destroyed. In 
many stands around Philadelphia it is hard to find a healthy tree. 
Unless some action is taken that will be the condition in this locality. 

These infections have all been removed and it is the expecta- 
tion that by the end of January, 191 3, all scattered spot infections 
will be removed from the territory west of the line previously 
mentioned, and that, to the best of our knowledge, these western 
counties will be free from blight. In 1913 the field force will be 
concentrated on the advance line and the work will be carried east- 
ward. The commission has the power to compel the removal of 
infected trees. In the western part of the State this was used in the 
few cases where it was necessary. As a rule, however, the owners 
are not only willing but anxious to get rid of the infected trees, and 
our field men are given hearty support by individuals, granges and 
other organizations. The timber owners of Elk County had printed 
and posted an announcement that the chestnut blight had been found 
in the locality and warned the people to be on the lookout for it. 

On the other hand, the commission has deemed that it was only 
just to place agents in the eastern part of the State where the 
ravages of the blight are most seriously felt. The commission has 
had an agent for a short time at least in each of the eastern counties 
of the State but their time has been taken up principally by those 
who requested an inspection of their timber with the view of de- 
termining the amount of blight infection and the best method to be 
pursued in combating it and realizing on the timber. 

This display is a part of the educational work which is being 
carried on for the purpose of acquainting the timber owners with 
the appearance of the blight disease. A similar exhibit was made 
in about thirty of the county fairs of the State and the appreciation 
of the public was so clearly shown that next year it is the intention 
of the commission to continue and perhaps increase this phase of 
the work. Many of the Teachers* Institutes now going on were 



94 



reached by a display and lecture, among them the Adams County 
Institute. We have arranged to have a speaker at fully one hundred 
of the Farmers' Institutes this winter, among them New Oxford and 
Biglerville. We are arranging also to have a public display at many 
of the public schools and colleges, where instruction in the blight is 
given. 

Publications which go into the subject more fully than is pos- 
sible in this paper can be obtained free of charge upon request. 
The commission advises the cutting of infected timber for the fol- 
lowing reasons: ist. Infected trees will be rapidly killed and the 
wood of such trees deteriorates very rapidly. 2d. Infected trees al- 
lowed to stand means the certain spread of the disease to surround- 
ing trees, resulting in the death of the whole stand in a few years. 
3d. It will mean the loss of valuable material through decay and 
insects. 

If the owner of chestnut timber land in this county does nothing 
he may expect to lose every chestnut tree and he will most likely 
find that after this time the timber is in such bad condition that it 
will not pay to take it out. 

Every man who owns a chestnut tree should learn to recognize 
the blight and then look over his trees. Upon request we will try 
to send a man to help determine how much blight there is, and 
help mark the infected trees. 

The infected trees can be made up into whatever is most profit- 
able; every farmer can use a certain amount of chestnut in posts, 
and cordwood each year, and probably manufacture some ties and 
poles at a profit. In this way he can utilize the infected trees that 
should be cut, and get rid of them, which is the chief consideration. 
Beyond this he must bark the stumps to the ground and burn the 
bark over the stumps. By cutting a low stump this is not an ex- 
pensive undertaking and the sprouts will be healthier and more vig- 
orous. If it is not done the sprouts will eventually all become in- 
fected and unless other species come in to take the place of the 
chestnut no revenue will be received from the land for the next fifty 
years. 

It should not be understood that one cutting will be enough to 
eradicate the blight entirely unless all chestnut trees are cut. On 
the other hand, it will probably be necessary to go into the stand 
the following year and cut out more trees, but if the work is prop- 
erly done, the second year the number of trees will be fewer and 
after several years the blight should be completely cleared out. This 
means an effort on the part of timber owners, yet in this way he is 
utilizing his material and he is encouraging the growth of the trees 
that are left. Thinnings are often made for this purpose alone. In 
many places in various parts of the State timber owners go to- 
gether, each promising to take care of his own timber, and as a con- 
sequence the whole district is being cleared of the blight. Such an 
organization for mutual protection will be given every encourage- 



95 



ment and all the help possible by the Pennsylvania Chestnut Tree 
Blight Commission. 

Where the blight percentage is high it would often be wise to 
make a clear cutting of chestnut and if there are other species in 
the mixture perhaps the chestnut could be eliminated, and the 
land stocked to other species. In many cases the chestnut is being 
clear cut and the ground planted to pine, spruce or hardwood trees. 

The commission has established a Department of Utilization, 
which is collecting information on the various industries which use 
or might use chestnut, listing the buyers and owners of chestnut, and 
assisting the owners of blighted chestnut in marketing the timber 
to their best advantage. The department is trying to increase the 
demand of chestnut by calling attention to its many good qualities, 
and thus utilize a large quantity that must necessarily be thrown 
upon the market. In spite of the large amount of blighted chestnut 
much of which is being cut the market price of chestnut lumber in 
many places throughout the State looked for a drop in price, but in- 
stead are confronted with an increase of from $i.oo to $3.00 per 
1,000 feet within the past three months. There is at present a very 
good market for first and seconds. No. i common and sound wormy, 
in inch boards and all sorts of dimension material. Chestnut owners 
need not be afraid to cut their timber into different grades of 
lumber because there is a ready sale for material of this kind. 

There is a good market, also, in almost every locality, for poles 
and ties. Cordwood presents a difficult problem of disposal. The 
best market for this is in the central part of the State at the extract 
plants the nearest one being at Newport, Perry County. The com- 
mission has secured from the Pennsylvania Railroad a special tariff 
on blighted chestnut cordwood so that this product may be profitably 
shipped from greater distances than before. 

Although the chestnut wood has only about 65 per cent, of the 
heating value of good oak, it makes a good summer fuel, since it 
makes good kindling, burns rather quickly, and does not produce the 
lasting intense heat that oak does. A good argument for using 
chestnut instead of oak or hickory for fuel is that the small chestnut 
might in a few years be killed off by the blight while the oak, 
hickory, etc., will grow in value. 

There has been more or less discrimination against blighted 
chestnut. This has been in many cases unjust since the blight does 
not appear to injure the value of the wood for most purposes for 
which it is used. However, the owners sometimes fail to realize 
that blight cankers are favorable places for the entrance of wood 
borers and that where a large number of trees are being considered 
a percentage of them may be materially injured by insects. This is 
a secondary result of blight infection. When telephone poles are 
barked it is often seen that borers have attacked the wood under 
blight cankers and have not touched any other part of the tree, and 
these cankers are attractive spots for wood destroying fungi. Tele- 



96 



phone poles cut from trees which have been dead for some time are 
very apt to be rejected. 

The question of quarantine is often brought up. The com- 
mission has inspected all chestnut nursery stock shipped from nur- 
series within the State and has provided for inspection of all such 
stock entering the State. This should prevent a repetition of in- 
fections in the western part of Pennsylvania which might destroy 
millions of dollars worth of timber. It has also prohibited the 
shipping of unbarked chestnut cordwood from the eastern part of 
the State across the advance line. There is no other quarantine on 
poles, ties or other barked material across this line, nor a quarantine 
of any kind upon any material shipped from place to place east of 
this line. 

The State Foresters are cutting the blighted trees over the 
neighboring State reserve, of 20,000 acres. The Reading Railroad 
owns several thousand acres of timberland adjoining the Adams 
County line and the State Reserve, which is in the same condition 
as so much of the timberland around this vicinity. Repeated fires 
have occurred after the first cutting and no revenue has been re- 
ceived from the land for the last 10 years. The growth is of very 
poor quality and the stand in a bad condition. Some of the trees 
have become blighted and the railroad saw that unless they did 
something the whole tract would become a waste. They have seen 
that their agent became familiar with the blight, have had him in- 
spect the timber and remove the infected trees. They have done 
more than this. They have seen that such work would not be 
fully justified unless they expected to realize something on their 
timber, so they are now making an effort to prevent fire, which is 
the other big enemy to timber land. In such a way the blight will 
be beneficial in forestry just as the San Jose scale has proven itself 
beneficial in the fruit industry. Taking care of the blight will neces- 
sitate better methods and more attention to the growing timber and 
help the State prepare for the timber famine which is coming within 
the next 50 years. 

The chestnut in Pennsylvania is the most valuable timber in the 
State, when all things are considered. It is the most abundant, 
grows most rapidly, sprouts well and will grow in very poor soils. 
Seventy million dollars is a conservative estimate of the value of the 
standing chestnut in the State. Adams County has its share of valu- 
able chestnut land. 

Can you afiford to lose the chestnut timber ? From the studies 
made in Adams County it appears that there is an average infec- 
tion of only 4 per cent. In York County the infection runs about 
50 per cent. What I wish to emphasize is that this county has a 
good chance to entirely eradicate the blight. The amount of in- 
fection is not high. There are numerous portable mills all over the 
chestnut area and even the market for cordwood, the only product 
difficult to dispose of, is good. 




-Pig- 2. — C. T. ii. C. A Stand of Chestnut Entirely Killed by Blight. 



97 



Every tree which has the infection at any place should be cut 
because that tree will eventually be killed and by being left it is 
afforded an opportunity to throw out spores continually. 

Valuable orchard or ornamental trees may be treated by cutting 
out the canker, disinfecting and painting the wound. A bulletin, 
which goes into this subject in detail, may be secured free of charge 
upon request. 

In southern Europe chestnut orcharding is a well-established 
and profitable industry. In the United States chestnuts have been 
considered a marketable commodity ever since the Indians carried 
them to the settlements and traded them for knives and trinkets. 
The demand has always exceeded the supply, and at the present 
time about two million dollars worth of nuts are imported from 
Europe annually. With the development of the better varieties of 
the nut has come an increased activity in American orcharding. 
The chestnut orchard industry promises to become one of very 
large importance, especially upon the poorer types of soil. 

At the present time there are in what is known as the Blight 
area of Pennsylvania, which includes about one-half of the State, 
about loo orchards from 12 trees up to 400 acres in extent. These 
orchards are in varying stages of blight infection, some of them 
being entirely free, due to the attention which has been given 
them. 

The blight came as a very serious blow to this industry. Some 
of the orchards have been completely annihilated and the income re- 
duced from several thousands or more dollars per year to nothing. 
Whether or not the blight will completely wipe out the orcharding 
industry is a subject of considerable discussion. Personally, I be- 
lieve that chestnuts will be raised commercially in Pennsylvania in 
increased abundance, and as the various phases of the blight subject 
are brought to light, the work of keeping the blight under control 
will be more easily and accurately done. At the present time tnc 
blight is being kept under control in some orchards by examining the 
trees often and by treating an infection as soon as it appears, or cut- 
ting out the tree. If this policy is successfully pursued for several 
more years it will be demonstrated conclusively that chestnut can 
be grown in spite of the blight and this will mean an opportunity to 
use vast areas of waste land in Pennsylvania in a highly profitable 
manner. The results which have been attained in other fruits by 
selection and hybridization in recent years have been noteworthy. 
Certain pure strains of Japanese and Korean chestnut seem to be 
resistant to the blight and it is not unreasonable to suppose that we 
may eventually see an immune hybrid chestnut of good size and 
quality. 

Discussion. 

W. H. Black. How general is the infection in Adams County? 
Mr. Rockey. I understand it runs about 4 per cent, as an 



98 



average. In some districts it will run as high as 25 per cent. It jus: 
depends on how bad a start it happens to get. 

Mr. Tenny. Does this bark fungus gain entrance to a healthy 
tree or must it come through a wound ? 

Mr. Rockey. It has been said that the infection can enter with- 
out a wound of any kind, but such instances are very rare. If the 
tree has healthy bark all the way through, it would stand a much 
better chance of remaining healthy. The natural cracks in the bark 
are not so susceptible as those made by outside means. I might 
say that downstairs we have several cards, and if any of your peo- 
ple would like to have an inspection of your timber, and if you will 
write your name and address on the card, the agent will come 
around and see you. If you have only three or four trees on your 
property that are infected you can see that it will pay you to remove 
them so that next summer you will not be confronted with fifty 
more. 

Mr. Williams. Is there any cost to have this done? 

Mr. Rockey. That is absolutely free of charge. In the eastern 
part of the State is where the timber owners are losing the most 
money. The commission thought it was only right to do what they 
could for these people. For that reason there is no charge at all. 
None of the work is compulsory in this locality. 



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California Privet, Locust and Catalpa Speciosa 
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COVER CROPS AND THEIR EFFECT ON THE SOIL. 



Dr. Lipman. 



In discussing cover crops this morning I shall attempt to answer 
four general questions. In the first place, what are cover crops? 
Second, what advantages may result from the use of cover crops? 
Third, what disadvantages may result from the use of cover 
crops? Fourth, how may cover crops be used for the improvement 
of the soil and the crop? 

As to the first of these questions, there is more or less mis- 
understanding or confusion as to the meaning of the term or terms 
"cover crops", "green manure crops" and "catch crops". Logically, 
a cover crop is any crop that will prevent leaching or erosion. 
That was the main purpose in the growing of cover crops. It 
was intended to have a crop on the soil during a certain portion of 
the year to prevent the washing out of soluble plant food or the 
erosion of the surface soil if the topography be rolling. A green 
manure crop, most of us understand, is a crop that will take the 
place of animal manure to some extent. It will increase the con- 
tent of vegetable matter, and also it might add to the plant food 
content of the soil. Green manure crops will, in other words, 
increase the content of vegetable matter out of which humus is 
made. And finally, a catch crop is a crop that may be used as a 
cover crop. The catch crop may be harvested or plowed under. 
The green manure crop is intended to be turned under, so that 
there are really important differences in the character of each crop. 
Recently we have come to understand cover crops to mean green 
manure crops, sown not merely to protect the soil but to add some- 
thing to the soil. 

As to the next question: what advantages might result from 
the use of cover crops? In studying the history of cultivated land 
we find that there is a tendency for such cultivated land to deter- 
iorate in quality. Stating it briefly, any soil that is placed under 
cultivation, produces, in its new state, large crops which gradually 
decline. Then after a time if the markets, population and other 
conditions justify it, that land will be improved again and will 
be made to produce more than the virgin soil ever produced. 

Some of you may have read a little book, "The Farmers of 
Forty Centuries," that was published by the late Prof. King, of 
the University of Wisconsin, regarding his travels in China and 
Japan. It shows in a very striking way what the soils which have 
been cultivated for thousands of years have done in supporting a 
very large population. We know that our soils must deteriorate 
under prevailing practices, and it must come to pass in the develop- 



99 



lOO 



ment of any agricultural territory that there will be a decline 
from a higher to a lower state of production. There must come 
a time when the fruit grower, dairyman or any other type of 
farmer will have to think of ways and means to maintain the fer- 
tility of the soil and to improve the fertility of the soil, and when 
he reaches this point he will be confronted with certain questions 
he must answer if he is to accomplish the purpose which is before 
him. He must answer the question as why soils deteriorate. They 
deteriorate because they lose a larger or smaller portion of 
their available plant food, and therefore, cannot furnish the grow- 
ing crop with building material as fast as the crop may need it 
for profitable production. 

Soils may also deteriorate not because they lose too much 
plant food for profitable production, but because the texture of the 
soil itself has deteriorated. Instead of being open and mellow, 
permitting conditions that would favor the circulation of air and 
moisture, the soil has become compact and the moisture does not 
penetrate as it should. The farmer w^ho is able to answer these 
questions is also able to find the causes that lead to soil deteriora- 
tion, and he is ready to seek then for remedies that will enable him 
to counteract these tendencies. If you examine one hundred soils 
from any territory that has been under cultivation for a generation 
or more, and try to inquire into the deficiencies of these soils, you 
will find most of them deficient in the element nitrogen. The next 
largest proportion will be deficient in phosphoric acid, some will be 
deficient in potash and there might be many deficient in lime. 

In a soil deficient in nitrogen, a cover crop could be used to 
restore the nitrogen, hence it behooves the fruit grower to use 
cover crops that will restore this element. If the soil has deterior- 
ated in texture because it has lost too much of its vegetable matter, 
he must use cover crops to restore the vegetable matter that has 
been lost. These points are recognized well enough in the use of 
cover crops, but there are two or three other facts that are not as 
readily recognized. 

Why is it that a soil left to itself tends to grow more pro- 
ductive? It has been the impression in farming districts in Europe 
and elsewhere, that soils must rest, that soils that are allowed to 
rest will regain a portion of their fertility. 

Indeed, there are still localities in Europe where the land is 
allowed to grow up with weeds for a few years so as to recover 
some of its lost fertility. 

Why is it that some of our best soils are prairie soils? The 
vegetable matter accumulating, plants growing and dying, and 
growing again, produce in time a deep layer of vegetable mold. 
Why is it that some of our best soils are forest soils? These for- 
est soils when cleared of their timber growth, are able to pro- 
duce large and profitable crops for some years, as shown in Penn- 
sylvania. Why is it that when we analyze any cultivated soil, we 
find certain forms of plant food concentrated in the surface soil? 



lOI 

We find that the surface soil contains more phosphoric acid than 
the sub-soil. 

We can understand why there should be more nitrogen in the 
surface soil, for it is all of atmospheric origin, but we know that 
the phosphoric acid or the lime or potash are derived from the 
rock out of which the soil is made. The answer to this question 
may be found evidently in the explanation that the roots of plants 
go down into the sub-soil and bring up certain parts of the plant 
foods found in the sub-soil. In other words, we must recognize 
the fact that there is constant loss from all cultivated land or even 
from land that is not cultivated, as well as gain. That is true of all 
soils, but when land is placed under cultivation the losses exceed 
the gains. When land is allowed to rest, allowed to be occupied 
by vegetation, then the gains are greater than the losses and the 
soil has time to become richer. 

We cannot maintain a satisfactory texture and likewise satis- 
factory plant food conditions unless we provide for the mainten- 
ance of a sufficient supply of vegetable matter in the soil. This can- 
not be done unless animal manures are used or green manures are 
employed. Commercial fertilizers are not sufficient. Hence the 
significance of cover crops. First, cover crops will prevent the 
washing out of soluble plant food. Second, cover crops will in- 
crease the content of plant food in the surface soil, particularly 
nitrogen. Third, cover crops will increase the content of vegetable 
matter in the soil and will improve the water-holding power of the 
soil. Fourth, cover crops will provide for a larger store of mois- 
ture in all sections where snow falls and is likely to drift, and in 
the case of orcharding cover crops have certain advantages which 
they have not under other conditions of providing for the susten- 
ance and growth of the fruit trees when that may seem desirable 
to the fruit grower. I will discuss that at greater length presently, 
because it is an important feature from the fruit grower's stand- 
point. 

We need not discuss the loss of plant food at this time, per- 
haps, nor need we discuss the moisture relations as modified by the 
holding of snow. 

In the purchase of plant food we recognize that nitrogen is 
an expensive constituent of commercial fertilizers. We also rec- 
ognize that cultivated land, whether in orchards, fields or meadows, 
may lose a considerable amount of nitrogen. That is, where soil 
is cultivated, the loss may amount to 30, 40 or 60 lbs. a year. If 
we are to restore that amount of nitrogen at a cost of 25c, there is 
a value of $10.00 per acre that must be replaced. In cropping 
methods or types of farming where the crop is worth a great deal, 
$10.00 per acre would not mean very much, but even at that 
it is likely to be an important item. We know from experiments 
that have been carried on in most states, that the addition of nitro- 
gen in cover crops may amount to as much as 100, 125 or 150 lbs. 
per acre. By selecting a cover crop of the right quality we can dis- 



I02 



pense with the need of purchasing nitrogen in commercial ferti- 
lizers. This, therefore, is one of the strong features in the use of 
cover crops, provided we use cover crops that will add nitrogen to 
the soil. 

The deterioration of cultivated land which I mentioned a few 
moments ago, is due more to the lessening of the supply of avail- 
able plant food rather than to the lessening of the supply of the 
total plant food. 

Now, there is a point which most of us are likely to overlook. 
The soil of this portion of Pennsylvania contains, I should say, at 
least 2% of potash. You see that you have a very great accumula- 
tion of potash in these soils, and yet it often happens that the pro- 
gressive fruit grower will use commercial fertilizers containing 
potash, and by adding 50 or 60 or 100 lbs. of potash will often get 
a return from this small amount of fertilizer. There are differ- 
ences in the quality of the potash in commercial fertilizers and in 
the soil, but if we found means for making that potash in the soil 
available, is there any objection to our dispensing with the use of 
potash in commercial fertilizers? None at all. So far as the soil 
is concerned, the supply of potash is practically inexhaustible. 

There is no claim that could be made as to the possible deter- 
ioration of the soil because of the removal of potash. 

When we come to study the methods of "Farmers of Forty 
Centuries" that Prof. King refers to in his book, we are surprised 
at the cheapness of human effort. Farmers in China will take the 
soil off an acre of land to the depth of two or three inches, and 
grow a rice crop on the sub-soil. They will then return the surface 
•soil which they had meanwhile comforted and will grow something 
else on it. 

In the addition of nitrogen and vegetable matter to the soil, 
the two great functions of cover crops are before us, of adding and 
transforming plant food, aside from the function of conserving 
plant food in so far as the cover crop prevents leaching of soluble 
plant food during the Fall or early Spring. I will refer presently 
to the kind of cover crops we use and how they accomplish the pur- 
poses that we are considering, but I want to point out, before I pass 
on, that there are certain purposes in the use of cover crops in fruit 
growing that are a disadvantage rather than an advantage in other 
types of farming. 

In looking at the apples on the stage this morning my attention 
was called to some spots on the apples which are supposed to be 
due not to any fungous, but to the physical condition in the tissue 
of the fruit itself caused by something in the soil on which that 
fruit was produced. The statement was made by someone that 
there was too much nitrogen in the soil. It is an old belief that 
when too much nitrogen is present in the soil the tissues will be 
more tender and the vegetation will be more rank and very much 
more subject to the attack of fungous diseases, and furthermore, 
that there may be a breaking down of the tissues. The fruit grow- 




Fig. I. A Single Plaxt of Crimson Clover. 



I03 

er recognizes also, as every farmer recognizes it, that too much 
nitrogen in the soil is inimical to the production of a large crop of 
fruit. 

I know a market gardener who used animal manure year after 
year. He finally reached a point where he could produce the crops 
that were formerly produced. He has been forced to learn that 
a large amount of nitrogen tends to force large growth rather than 
to encourage seed production, and when there is too much nitro- 
gen in the soil it effects the wood and the fruit buds are not set as 
they should be. 

If we use alfalfa or vetch or crimson clover as cover crops, 
we are apt to reach a point when the cover crops are likely to do 
more harm than good, because of the excessive wood growth, 
which is a disadvantage in the case of fruit. For this reason: the 
fruit grower will often resort to the use of cover crops for the 
special purpose of stopping the further development of tissue in 
the tree in late summer, and when he has that purpose in mind he 
will prefer to use barley or oats perhaps, rather than crimson clover, 
vetch, etc. In this particular case he wants to get out of the soil as 
large an amount of nitrogen as he can to prevent the soil from mak- 
ing that nitrogen and the trees from getting it, so as ripen and 
mature earlier in the season. 

C. J. Tyson. Dr. Lipman, will you allow a question? In the 
case of cover crops of cowpeas, are the nitrates available to the 
tree and tree roots in the same season in which the growth has taken 
place, or is it necessary for the plants to decay? 

Dr. Lipman. It may to some extent. This question happens 
to bear on investigations that I have been making for several years 
on the influence of what we call "associated" growth of legumes 
and non-legumes. 

To answer your question directly, I should say that there is a 
gain even in the same season, but it will depend on other factors. 
In the case of cowpeas and soy beans grown with corn, in our ex- 
perience the yield of corn was decreased rather than increased, be- 
cause it happened that the season was exceptionally dry and mois- 
ture was the limiting factor. Before the trees could be stopped 
from lack of nitrogen they were stopped by lack of moisture in the 
soil. The corn had enough nitrogen but did not have enough mois- 
ture. I think that Hedrick has come to that conclusion that trees 
can benefit from legume cover crops. 

So much for the advantages of growing cover crops. As to the 
disadvantages, I have already referred to one. That is the excess- 
ive forcing of wood growth. The soil is itself inclined to be de- 
ficient in phosphoric acid and potash unless provisions were made 
for using enough fertilizer during the season when the cover crop 
is being produced. 

As to moisture, I think I have already referred to that and 
need not say anything more about it. We might pass on to the ques- 
tion, what could the farmer do to utilize cover crops in a practical 



104 



way, to increase his crop yields? It is for the farmer to decide 
whether his soil is deficient in nitrogen or not. If the trees are mak- 
ing all the growth he thinks they ought to make, then it would not 
be wise for him to grow leguminous cover crops. He might better 
depend on barley, oats, or winter wheat and not grow legumes. 
There is danger of excessive wood growth. I remember an ex- 
perience of ours in one of our experimental peach orchards at Vine- 
land. This particular area of land of gravelly loam had been re- 
duced to the point where it would not grow corn. It was soil that 
would be regarded as exhausted. We planted our peach trees 
there, and Prof. Blake, after watching them the first season said 
"I do not believe I would care to have more wood growth than the 
trees are making, and I should not care to apply any leguminous 
cover crop." I told him that, looking at it from the standpoint of 
the soil chemist, it was true perhaps, but it does not follow that 
next 3^ear or the next after you will not want to grow a cover 
crop. Now, we find that the trees that gave us the best returns 
were those that had received applications of nitrate of soda. They 
had too much nitrogen, or enough of it, earlier in their history. 
So when it comes to the practical application of the teachings on 
the value of cover crop, we must use our judgment in deciding 
what is best to use; whether they will make enough wood growth 
or not. 

But on the other hand, he would be quite safe in using more 
legumes, and if he prefers his vegetable matter to die down and 
leave the winter cover dead, he might use barley. If you prefer 
something early in the Spring, he might use winter rye. If he 
feels that the soil is deficient in nitrogen, he has a number of 
legumes from which to choose. 

What legumes could the fruit growers of Adams County, Penn- 
sylvania use with any dependence, for increasing the supply of 
nitrogen as well as of vegetable matter in his soil? Winter vetch, 
clover or alfalfa. Alfalfa in this connection may be new to you, 
but I believe that with proper inoculation, alfalfa may be a very 
good cover crop. And of course cow peas, and soy beans should 
be included in the list. So we have not many legumes available 
for our purpose. Of all those that I mentioned, perhaps alfalfa and 
winter vetch are the most promising. For soils that are not well 
drained or inoculated, winter vetch would be the most satisfactory 
cover crop. Winter vetch has the advantage of being very resis- 
tant. In Michigan peach orchards winter vetch is regarded as 
the best cover crop. Winter vetch is hardy and does not depend on 
inoculation as much as does alfalfa, and will add considerable 
quantities of nitrogen and vegetable matter to the soil. It makes 
a very good cover and under favorable conditions, will form a solid 
mat. The amount of nitrogen added by winter vetch will range 
from 50 to 100 pounds per acre. Alfalfa is a promising cover crop, 
where the soil is deep and well drained, and properly inoculated, 
it will make enough growth in the early fall and spring to furnish 



105 

a large amount of nitrogen. It will have the advantage of growing 
down deeper in the sub-soil than will vetch. Cow peas or soy- 
beans might be used to advantage. I should prefer soy beans for 
this section of the country ; they are more hardy, richer in nitrogen, 
and are not subject to blight to the same extent as cow peas. Cow 
peas will not require inoculation to the same extent but they will 
do much better in soil that is inoculated, than will soy beans. These 
can be used to advantage wherever conditions would permit. 

In order to be able to utilize the cover crop to best advantage 
we must see that they make their growth. To make this point clear 
let me tell you of a personal experience of mine. I happened to be 
down in Monmouth County, N. J., in the potato section of that 
county. One of the potato growers showed me a field of crimson 
clover that was sown after the potatoes had been removed, on the 
26th day of August. I was there on the loth or 12th day of Novem- 
ber, and there was a mat of crimson clover on the soil five or six 
inches high. The farmer said to me, "I am not at all concerned 
about winter killing. I have all the nitrogen and all the humus I 
need for next year, and if it is killed it matters little to me." Yet 
under the same conditions, crimson clover sown at the end of 
August might have made a growth of an inch or two. Why was 
there, in this case, so much growth? Evidently that potato grower 
had been using large quantities of fertilizer. He had a good soil 
and that crimson clover made more growth in three or four weeks 
than it would have made in another soil in two months. It is not 
a practice in this country to fertilize the cover crop. We expect 
the cover crop to shift for itself. 

In Germany they recognize that they can profitably stimulate 
the growth of the cover crop. If we are to utilize a cover crop 
particularly its vegetable matter in the fall or early spring, as the 
case may be, we have to see that the cover crop finds the best condi- 
tions for its growth, and these conditions are particularly important 
to provide for when we are growing legumes. Legumes require 
a large amount of lime. The amount of lime might be enough for 
the apple trees themselves, but not enough for the cover crop. You 
might have enough phosphoric acid for the slow growing trees 
but not enough for the quick growing ones. So that in the prac- 
tical utilization of cover crops you must make proper provision for 
the presence of lime, and for the proper inoculation of the land. 
These are the more important points in the use of cover crops and 
because of the great length at which I have discussed these points, 
I do not feel that it would be proper for me to discuss the matter 
any longer, except in so far as you may wish me to answer specific 
questions. 

C. J. Tyson. Do you think it practical for us to try to save seed 
of winter vetch? 

Dr. Lipman. Yes, if you could grow winter vetch with rye, or 
preferably winter wheat. Rye matures a little early for vetch, I 



io6 

think it is quite feasible to grow your own seed. Of course you 
will have to have rye or wheat with it to hold up the vetch and to 
get the seed. The only difficulty arises in the fact that when the 
wheat and vetch are grown together it is hard to separate them. 





FOR SPRAYING 

USE COOPER'S 

GROUND SULPHUR 


^ 

CHAS. COOPER & COMPANY 

ESTABLISHED 1857 

194 Worth Street NEW YORK CITY 
WORKS: NEWARK, NEW JERSEY 

Monthly Price List Issued 







SOME PROBLEMS CONFRONTING THE APPLE GROW- 
ER OF TO-DAY. 



Lloyd S. Tenny, Hilton, New York. 



Mr. President and fruit Growers of Adams County: 

The great aim of the apple grower of to-day is the same as that 
of most other lines of industry, namely, to make money. His prob- 
lems, therefore, have to do with those things which make it impos- 
sible or difficult for him to make his living. We may divide these 
broadly into two classes; first those problems which have to do 
with the size and character of his crop and in the second place, 
those problems connected with the turning of his product into 
money, namely the marketing problems. 

During the past years we have heard much about increasing the 
productiveness of our orchards. Our experiment stations have de- 
voted most of their time in studying orchard management and the 
control of insect pests and plant diseases, or those phases of farm- 
ing which tend to produce larger and better crops of fruit. It would 
not do to say that too much time has been spent in studying these 
phases of the subject but it is certainly true that too little attention 
has been given to the other side of fruit growing, namely the 
marketing problems. Even so there are certain problems still con- 
fronting the grower which have not been solved to the satisfaction 
of all. Of these I shall speak first. 

With regard to the young orchard, there is still the problem 
of varieties. This is one, however, that has been cleared up con- 
siderably in very recent years. A few years ago, there was a feel- 
ing on the part of many of our best growers that it was better to 
try some new varieties and what these should be was a real problem. 
This idea fortunately has been pretty generally done away with 
and now we recognize that the safest rule to follow in selecting 
varieties for a new orchard is to choose only those varieties which 
have been well tested out for the section in which we wish to plant. 
This does not mean of course that one should never try out new 
varieties, but these untried ones should be set with the idea that 
it is an experimental orchard and should not be selected for large 
commercial orchards. So we fruit men in Western New York 
have gone back to planting such varieties as the Baldwin, the 
Rhode Island Greening, the Northern Spy and others of these old- 
time varieties. We know what these will do under our soil con- 
ditions and with our orchard management. Many other varieties 
will do well under different conditions but it is still a question 
whether they will do as well with us as they do in other places and 
it is a pretty safe rule to follow to plant only those varieties which 
cannot be surpassed by the growers in another section. 



107 



io8 

Then we also have the problem of laying out the orchard and 
determining the distance apart to plant. This too has been pretty 
generally solved in recent years. We are realizing that human 
nature is weak and that it is best to plant our trees the full distance 
apart without fillers of the same kind of fruit for it is very doubtful 
if one person in ten will cut out the fillers as soon as they should 
come out. Thus a few years ago we were setting our trees 20 by 
25 feet or thereabouts, with the idea of taking out every other 
tree ; now the tendency is to put them at least 40 feet in each direc- 
tion. In the peach sections, many growers are using peach fillers 
and finding the practice is an excellent one for the peach trees will 
of themselves come out before there is much crowding. Notwith- 
standing the advice of many of our scientific men, this practice has 
increased rather than decreased, and nearly every fruit grower 
who has tried the system, likes it very well. Many of our growers 
are setting permanent trees farther apart than they did a few years 
ago and it is not uncommon to find an orchard set with such va- 
rieties as Northern Spy, Baldwin, or R. I. Greening, where the 
trees are 45 feet apart or even 50 feet. Where apple fillers are still 
being used, such varieties as Wagener, Wealthy, Alexander, Twen- 
ty-Ounce, and Yellow Transparent are being used. 

Another problem connected wath the growing of the apple 
which is still unsolved in the mind of the average fruit man is the 
one of pruning or shaping the young tree. Our old orchards have 
leaders in the center. The western orchards from which we are 
getting our finest looking fruit to-day have open centers. Of these 
two methods of pruning a young tree, which is the better? The 
majority of us must confess that we do not know. A few things 
are very evident, however, as one visits the younger apple orchards 
in the various parts of the East. In the first place, the growers are 
heading their trees much lower than they did years ago. It is doubt- 
ful if the average head is placed much over two feet above the 
ground at the present time. Formerly it was four feet or even 
more. I believe that almost without exception, the best growers are 
not shaping their trees with distinct leaders in the center. A great 
many men, however, do not want the true vase-shaped form. They 
are rather leaving from three to five main branches, no one of them 
being of greater weight or importance than any of the others. The 
center of the tree is being filled more or less, as the grower may 
wish, with lateral branches coming out from these first main 
branches. Under this system it is possible to thin out the center of 
the tree whenever it is desired, as the branches which make up the 
center are comparatively small and unimportant and so may be 
cut out without detriment to the health and general make-up of 
the tree. 

Now for a few words regarding the cultural problems in our 
orchards. Dr. Lipman has given us an excellent paper on the cover 
crops for our orchards. We all admit that cover crops are neces- 
sary, at least if we practice thorough tillage. For us in most sec- 



tions of New York we have settled the matter that tillage is neces- 
sary, for without it we can neither get the crop of fruit nor can we 
secure the size of apple that will bring the most money. This much 
therefore is settled; we must cultivate our orchards and we must 
grow cover crops. Unfortunately, however, there are certain dis- 
advantages that follow from these practices, chief among which 
is that the grower is not securing the high color on his fruit that he 
would like to get. This is a real problem and one of vital import- 
ance, for it is still true that the average buyer buys with his eyes 
and unless a fruit be attractive in color it will not find a ready 
market at a good price. Our problem is, therefore, how may we 
still till and grow cover crops and yet increase the color of our 
fruit. Possibly this may be done by the addition of some commer- 
cial fertilizer. Those who have done the most work on the subject, 
however, rather doubt this. 

The common practice in tilling an orchard and putting in the 
cover crop is so well known that it is not necessary for me to des- 
cribe it to you. I do, however, want to give you the outline of a 
system which is used by a few of our best growers and which may 
possibly help in solving this question of better color. The orchards 
are plowed very early in the spring. It is possible to use the disk 
instead of the plow if the owner prefers this method of getting 
his orchard under cultivation. The cultivation is very thorough 
all during the early part of the summer but it is not carried on to as 
late a date as is generally done. Just as soon as the leaves on the 
trees are very dark in color showing a good rank growth and a 
healthy state, then the owner stops his cultivation and puts in his 
cover crop ; this may be as early as the first of July or even before 
that date. When the cover crop is sown as early as this, it generally 
gives good results and a good stand of clover is obtained. This in 
turn tends to stop the growth and to ripen the wood, which is a 
fundamental condition for good color. Frequently the cover crop 
reaches such a stage that it is necessary to mow the orchard once 
in the fall. The following spring the orchard is again plowed and 
the same process is repeated. The great objection to this method as 
I see it is that it will tend to give us an over supply of nitrogen 
from the annual growth of the leguminous cover crop. I doubt too 
whether it would be possible to use any non-leguminous cover crop 
when it is sowed as early in the summer as this is. At any rate, 
this paper does not try to solve this problem ; it aims only to point 
out some of the greater problems which confront the apple grower 
of to-day. A broader view of this same problem is the production 
of a higher grade of fruit. This does not apply to color alone but 
includes also the finish of the apple as well as freeness form blem- 
ishes of all kinds and description. As competition becomes keener, 
that section will live where the greatest proportion of the fruit is 
of a strictly fancy grade, other things being equal. 

After all I cannot believe that our greatest problem lies in the 
field of growing more or better fruit; rather is it connected with the 



no 



turning of this fruit into more money. In other words it is a mar- 
keting problem, rather than one of culture. We are beginning to 
realize that the marketing of our fruits is a complex problem and 
one that but few of our farmers can solve. It is because of this 
that so many middlemen have become connected with our fruit 
business. Granting that they are all honest, which we know is not 
the case, even then the system of marketing through several middle- 
men is an expensive system and one not favorable for the grower to 
get the most out of his fruit. Some better system must be intro- 
duced. This is a problem which confronts the fruit growers in 
nearly every part of the country. The system that has solved the 
problem for the agricultural folk in several sections of the country is 
that of co-operative selling. The citrus growers of California con- 
trol their own marketing system through the California Fruit 
Growers' Association. In this way proper distribution is obtained 
and top prices may be maintained. Before co-operation can succeed, 
however, we must have developed a better system of packing, for 
without uniform grading of a high character it is not possible for 
the growers to market their own fruit. 

These are only some of the many problems that confront us as 
fruit growers. We can never hope to have all our problems solved; 
it is doubtful if we ever want to have them all solved, for a business 
without problems would scarcely offer the attractions for the intel- 
ligent young man whom we hope to have associated with us in this 
great industry of fruit growing. 




ALFALFA. 



Dr. Lipman. 



Mr. Prksidknt and Fridnds : 

The Arabs came to Spain to destroy and occupy the territory 
that belonged to the natives. They brought with them a plant 
which by most of us is now called alfalfa. The Spaniards, when 
they went to the new world to look for silver and gold, brought 
seeds of alfalfa with them and left it along the western coast of 
South America to become acclimated and to find its way up the coast 
to the North. We find, therefore, that the spread of alfalfa in this 
country was from the west to the east, rather than from the east to 
the west, even though attempts to grow alfalfa were made in the 
east before the end of the i8th century. 

The spread from the west to the east presents to us a very in- 
teresting story. For instance, in 1891 Kansas had 35,000 acres of 
alfalfa. Now Kansas has perhaps 1% millions of acres of alfalfa. 
In view of the soil enriching qualities of this crop, we can under- 
stand what alfalfa has done and even now is doing for Kansas, Col- 
orado, Nebraska and California. But it is not only in the West and 
Middle West that alfalfa is doing great things for the improvement 
and enriching of soils, for near our own doors alfalfa has been 
becoming more and more prominent. 

Only the other day I saw it stated in a bulletin from the Wis- 
consin Experiment Station that twenty years ago the crop was 
practically unknown in that State. But Wisconsin has now 25,000 
acres and in the next three years will have 50,000 acres in alfalfa. 
In our own State, New Jersey, there were probably less than 200 
acres of alfalfa ten or eleven years ago. Now we have between 
three and four thousand acres of alfalfa. Its spread in New York 
and Pennsylvania has been no less significant. Indeed, it is safe to 
predict that alfalfa growing in the Eastern States has passed the 
experimental stage. From now on we may expect to see the rapid 
spread of alfalfa and the enhancing of its reputation as a soil 
enriching crop. Its ability to restore worn out soils will be appre- 
ciated as fully as it was appreciated by the Romans who praised it 
for its health-restoring as well as its soil-restoring qualities. They 
referred to it as *'Herba medica," the medicinal plant and fed it 
to animals that had lost their appetite. In South America, too, 
alfalfa has come to be a potent factor in agricultural development. 
Thanks to it the wild prairie is converted into arable land and ren- 
dered fit to grow profitable crops of wheat. In a word, then, al- 
falfa gains an enviable reputation wherever it is given an opportu- 
nity to demonstrate its value. Hence I shall attempt to point out 



III 



112 



this afternoon why alfalfa is a desirable crop and to outline the 
methods that must be followed in order to assure its success. 

Alfalfa is a soil enriching crop because it has the power to in- 
crease the content of nitrogen in the soil. For example, we have 
raised seven tons of alfalfa per acre at New Brunswick. We had 
one ten acre field of alfalfa that gave us an average yield of six 
tons of field cured hay per acre. We expect to average at the 
College Farm, five tons per acre of field cured alfalfa hay. The 
average lOO lbs of alfalfa hay will contain 2^ to 3 lbs. of nitrogen, 
equivalent to 15 or 18% of protein. 

After the removal of the crop there are left in the soil very 
large quantities of roots and stubble, which increase the content of 
nitrogen. Alfalfa is, therefore, a soil enriching crop because it adds 
nitrogen to the soil. Moreover it has another feature that is not 
recognized as widely. It has the ability to improve the soil be- 
cause of its deep rooting habits, and because of its ability to open 
up channels which are followed by the roots of succeeding crops. 
Further arguments are hardly needed to convince us that wherever 
possible we should grow alfalfa, and should make it a part of our 
crop rotations. It should be grown wherever farm, dairy or beef 
animals are kept. A ton of alfalfa is worth as much for feeding 
purposes as a ton of wheat bran. 

But while we recognize the value of the crop, and admit the 
desirability of growing it, we cannot but admit also that there are 
certain difficulties to overcome in the growing of alfalfa that cause 
many people to fail and to become discouraged. I think though 
that people who have had some experience in alfalfa growing con- 
sider the difficulties not at all impossible to overcome. That is, 
when the demands of the crop and of the soil are recognized, the 
growing of alfalfa is no more difficult than the growing of clover. 

We learn, as we begin to grow alfalfa, that while there are soil 
types better adapted to this crop than other soil types, we also learn 
that practically every type of soil will grow alfalfa provided cer- 
tain conditions are met. Whatever the soil type may be, it must of 
all things be well aerated. A soil compact enough to prevent the 
proper circulation of air is not well suited for the growing of al- 
falfa. We must have a soil that is deep and one that is well aerated. 
We must have a soil that is not acid. We learn a great deal about 
lime when we come to study alfalfa growing. 

Crops differ in their lime requirements. There are those that 
will grow by preference on sour soil, and there are even legumes 
that will prefer a sour soil. We have a wide range, in other words, 
in the needs of different crops for lime, but of alfalfa it may be said 
safely that there is hardly any other crop that will make as great a 
demand on the soil for lime. Therefore for the growing of alfalfa 
successfully we must provide not only a well drained soil, but one 
abundantly supplied with lime. 

Some years ago we were carrying on experiments in southern 
New Jersey on a very light, sandy soil, whose owner had previously 



113 

seeded one of the fields with alfalfa. When we started with our 
work there that field was, I think, probably seven or eight years old, 
alfalfa had disappeared but for a few isolated plants here and 
there, with the exception of one corner where it still was very good. 
I asked the owner if he could explain why that particular corner 
of the field still had a fine set of alfalfa. He said : "I have no ex- 
planation to offer except possibly this : Just prior to the seeding of 
alfalfa we limed our land at the rate of one or one and one-half 
tons per acre. We had a load or two left over and I told the boys 
to dump it in one corner. Probably that may explain why that 
alfalfa is growing so vigorously." 

I want to emphasize the importance of using enough lime not 
only to secure a successful stand, but also enough to keep the plants 
in full vigor. 

There is a field of alfalfa in California that is fifty years old 
and the plants are still there. We also know that alfalfa grows al- 
most naturally in the irrigated sections of the United States. When 
we stop to examine the character of these soils we will find they are 
all rich in lime. 

In our own State, New Jersey, the people who have grown 
alfalfa without any particular effort are mostly located on limestone 
soil. The lime permits the alfalfa to hold its own against other 
crops, weeds, and particularly grasses. Unless the environment is 
agreeable to alfalfa it will be crowded out. Too much cannot be 
said, therefore, of the importance of adding an abundant supply 
of lime to the soil, not only to secure the growth at the beginning 
but to maintain it for some years. 

Now, in the course of years, there has come to be an adjust- 
ment between the plants and the bacteria. We do not understand 
this adjustment, but we know that clover and alfalfa are not normal 
plants when not inoculated. They are abnormal plants and in order 
to become normal plants they must have nodules on the roots. I 
do not mean to say that we cannot grow alfalfa without bacteria. 
In fact alfalfa plants are grown in old gardens without any sign of 
nodules. Thus we have plants which derive their nitrogen from the 
soil rather than from the air, making the soil poorer rather than 
richer. When we study successful alfalfa production we recognize 
the three important attributes — proper soil drainage, the presence of 
lime and of inoculation. The third is as important as any and 
is as likely to be absent as any. We must therefore provide for the 
inoculation of the soil. 

To begin with, the successive steps in the process, as it is 
followed by most successful alfalfa growers, what are the important 
stages in the growing of alfalfa? In the first place, the alfalfa 
grower will provide for a clean seed bed. In other words, in the 
competition with weeds or grasses the young alfalfa plants are more 
likely to win out in the struggle when a clean seed bed is provided. 
Therefore alfalfa is seldom grown after timothy or sod of any sort, 
but preferably after the land has been covered by some cultivated 



114 



crop. The rotation may oe corn, oats and peas or potatoes and 
alfalfa. But whatever the rotation, successful alfalfa growers will 
provide for a clean seed bed. 

In the next place the alfalfa grower will supply a generous 
amount of lime. You will at once ask how much lime should be used 
and what kind of lime should be used. These questions are often 
raised by men who are confronted with them. The amount of lime 
will vary with the soil. The heavier, the more ; the lighter, the less 
lime. But for light, sandy soils we should need at least a ton of 
lime to the acre, on the basis of burned lime. I have seen splendid 
alfalfa grown with not more than a ton to the acre. On soils that 
are not lime-stone soils it would be safer to apply possibly one and 
one-half tons. Heavy clay soils that have not been limed for sev- 
eral years should have fifty bushels to the acre. Some of it applied 
before plowing and some after plowing would give the best results. 
As to the form of lime, that is whether it be ground limestone, 
or slaked lime it is immaterial, provided enough be used, except that 
for very heavy clay soils, I should prefer to use slaked lime. For 
medium soils it does not make a great deal of difference. One ton 
of freshly burned lime, properly slaked, will go practically twice 
as far as one ton of ground limestone. 

As to chemical composition, magnesian lime is, for practical pur- 
poses, as good as non-magnesian lime. It will give just as good re- 
sults, except on light sandy soils. 

Having applied the lime the alfalfa grower is confronted with 
the next question as to the plant food to use. Should he use stable 
manure, or commercial fertilizer, or both; and how much is he to 
use? In our earlier experiments we used barnyard manure. We 
secured beneficial results wherever barnyard manure was used, but 
we also found that the growth of grass and other plants was stimu- 
lated and the crowding out of the alfalfa proceeded in a more rapid 
way. In our work now we prefer not to use any manure at all 
except for the preceding crop. We find that a direct application 
of barnyard manure is not desirable. We now depend entirely on 
commercial fertilizer. We used to employ a mixture composed of 
equal parts of bone meal, acid phosphate, and muriate of potash. 
Because of the increased cost of bone meal we find that it is very 
much cheaper to use a mixture of acid phosphate and muriate of 
potash. You will find that for almost every soil this mixture is 
cheaper and quite as effective. It consists of ^oo pounds of acid 
phosphate and loo pounds muriate, applied at the rate of 400 
pounds per acre. In the case of light, sandy soil it would be better 
to use 150 pounds instead of 100 pounds muriate. We make prac- 
tically the same application every year. The material is not costly. 
Acid phosphate may be bought for $12.00 or $13.00 per ton and 
muriate for about $40.00 or $41.00 per ton. 

The fertilizer cost for the alfalfa crop, considering the bene- 
fits derived, is therefore a minor tjiatter. The crop gets its nitrogen 
from the air and we do not need to supply it. I might say, though, 



"5 



in this connection, that some of our agricultural papers recommend 
the use of nitrate of soda at the time of seeding. The reason given 
for this is that the young plants do not develop the ability to get 
nitrogen out of the air at once. To tide them over the period of 
scarcity it might be well to use nitrate of soda. In my own opinion 
this is not necessary except where the soil is very poor, but after all 
it is not advisable to attempt the growing of alfalfa on the poorest 
land. It is better to improve it with fertilizers and manure, for 
alfalfa does not do well on land that lacks fertility. 

The next step that we have to consider after we have applied 
the lime and fertilizer is the question of inoculation. We must 
decide how to introduce those bacteria that are to form a partnership 
with the plants, and developing on their roots, will enable them to 
draw nitrogen from the atmosphere. The farmer has at his dis- 
posal several methods of inoculating the soil or "vaccinating" the 
soil, as some one has put it. He might take soil from a field where 
alfalfa has grown, or he might use what is called an artificial cul- 
ture of bacteria. Such cultures may be secured free of charge from 
the Department of Agriculture at Washington. The process of pre- 
paring cultures is rather simple. The bacteriologist will go out 
into a field and will dig up a quantity of plants. He will wash off 
the roots in clean water, break off one of those little nodules, which 
contains many thousands of bacteria, and will immerse it into a so- 
lution of corrosive sublimate or strong alcohol, to kill the bacteria 
adhering to the outside of the nodule. He will then cut that little 
nodule open, and with a sterile needle will transfer some of the con- 
tents into a solution made up of several salts that can be bought at 
any drug store. This solution is for the bacteria a culture medium, 
just as flour and water make a culture medium for yeast in bread 
making. In any favorable culture medium the bacteria multiply 
very rapidly. Some of the commercial cultures, instead of coming 
in liquid form, are sold as a jelly similar to that bought for making 
pudding. 

I cannot emphasize too much the importance of inoculation, 
as well as of liming and of proper preparation of the seed bed. 

Something should be said about the seed. Failures in alfalfa 
growing occur in spite of proper liming, inoculation and fertili- 
zation, and these failures are almost always attributable to poor 
seed. The Colorado Experiment Station has been carrying on some 
very interesting experiments for the last two years on alfalfa seed 
from different sources. 

A great deal of the seed that comes from southern Europe is 
not hardy enough for our climate. Unfortunately, however, many 
of us do not inform ourselves as to the source of the seed. We 
should make certain that it is derived from a proper source. So 
many of us fail to make proper inquiries concerning the origin of 
the seed, and for this reason fail in the growing of alfalfa. 

If time would permit I should like to discuss the second part 
of alfalfa production, the handling and curing of the hay, but I 



ii6 

have taken up a considerable amount of time, and if your president 
thinks it is in order to continue the discussion I shall be glad to do 
so. 



Mr. Tenny. In a field where potatoes were grown last summer 
when would you seed to alfalfa? 

Dr. Lipman. We find that between the 15th and the 25th of 
August is the best time for us under all conditions. We have tried 
spring seedings and have had success, but on the whole we find the 
best time in August because we can get our seed bed ready, particu- 
larly as the growth of weeds is sufficiently retarded by that time. 
In Wisconsin they get the best results by seeding in the spring. 
They use 20 pounds of alfalfa seed and about 50 or 60 pounds of 
barley per acre for spring seeding. The climate will determine 
the best time to seed. If you go far enough south I dare say you 
will find spring seeding most satisfactory. In Adams County, I 
am quite certain that from the loth to the 15th of August would 
be the best time. I might add here that in Ohio they have been 
experimenting in various ways. For instance, they have used 
alfalfa as a catch crop, now and then, with good success. Then they 
have used alfalfa as we use clover for seeding with oats. There are 
various ways in which it may be used, and now and then one man 
will succeed where others fail, but as a general method for southern 
Pennsylvania or New Jersey and almost all of New York, seeding 
in August, on the whole, will give the best results. Prof. Hopkins, 
of the Illinois Station, has made the claim that the bacteria will 
form nodules on the roots of sweet clover, and will also form nod- 
ules on the roots of alfalfa. 

R. A, Wickersham. Could you grow sweet clover as success- 
fully and profitably as alfalfa? 

Dr. Lipman. I do not think so. I think that sweet clover 
will not compare favorably with alfalfa for yield, but at the same 
time sweet clover has its uses and will grow on soil too heavy or 
too wet for alfalfa. Where alfalfa can be grown successfully, all 
people who have compared the crops will admit that it is a better 
crop than sweet clover. 

A. W. Griest. For alfalfa started this fall, what would you 
recommend as a fertilizer, after the first cutting next summer? 

Dr. Lipman. I would recommend 300 pounds of acid phos- 
phate and ICQ pounds of muriate of potash. No nitrogen. The 
crop is able to get its nitrogen from the air. 

Question. How would you apply that fertilizer? 

Dr. Lipman. You would want to broadcast your fertilizer. 
We have taken the matter up in New Jersey now as to keeping al- 
falfa in for a longer time — possibly about 20 years. If we could 
keep alfalfa in for 12 or 14 years it might be cheaper to put it in 
rows rather than broad cast it. We intend to find out whether it 
would pay to have alfalfa sown in rows. 



LESSONS FROM WESTERN APPLE GROWERS. 



Mr. C. E. Bassett. 



The average farmer is not a good business man. That is a 
harsh statement, but we may as well face it and make the most of 
it. If we ever take a look at our competitors it is to become jealous 
of their successes or to gloat over their failures, rather than to study 
their methods so as to adopt what brings success or avoid the plans 
which lead to defeat. 

It is reported that within two years the Pacific Coast will have 
over 15,000,000 bearing apple trees. That is interesting to the 
eastern grower, because he ought to plan his work so as to meet 
that competition. My home town of Fennville, in western Mich- 
igan, is known to very few of my hearers — is hardly on the map, 
so far as you are concerned — and still it ships more apples to cold 
storage every year than does the world-wide known Hood River 
Valley. Western New York and southern Pennsylvania also have 
points that excel Hood River in the quantity of apples grown and 
shipped, but it is in the quantity and natural quality that we lead, 
while it is the finish and excellence of pack that has put the Pacific 
Coast points on the map in big red letters. 

We all have a general knowledge of western conditions, but it 
was this summer, while visiting that section, that I had an oppor- 
tunity to study their problems by seeing for myself and by talking 
with the growers. The western land agents know just how to use 
the brightest tints of printer's ink when describing their wonderful 
land bargains and their use of superlatives is sufficient to put the ad- 
vance agent of the modern circus completely in the background. 

Among the many horticultural leaders that I met and conversed 
with was the head of one of the large fruit exchanges, who seemed 
to take as much interest in eastern fruit progress as in what was 
being done in his own section. He was keeping a sharp eye on what 
their competitors were trying to do and on the probable effect it 
would have on their business. As I told him of the reviving of in- 
terest in horticulture in the east, the rejuvenating of old apple 
orchards, etc., I said, "What are you going to do with these high- 
priced orchards when we get our methods improved and our or- 
ganizations for fine packing completed in the east?" What do you 
suppose his answer was? '*You never will do it!" He practically 
told me and, through me, he tells you that the Pacific Coast grower 
relies on the lack of business of the eastern grower — upon his lazi- 
ness, his shiftlessness, his dishonesty, if you please. Was he right? 
I put it up to you. Did he tell the truth or is it a libel upon the man- 
hood and womanhood of our eastern growers? Your answer must 
come in the work that you do in the future. Acts speak louder than 



117 



ii8 

words and if we continue to practice the slack methods of the past, 
that man told the truth and we will deserve our fate. But I don't 
believe him. I have faith in the latent honesty and business ability 
of our eastern growers. 

The western growers went there mostly from the east and 
crossing the Rocky Mountains did not especially work a miraculous 
change in their honesty or business ability. But their disadvantage 
of high-priced lands and their distance from market have worked 
out to their advantage. My home town is only a few hours from 
Chicago — the largest distributing market in this country — and, since 
we can ship anything to Chicago and get something for it, most of 
us are raising anything, shipping everything and are getting a little 
of nothing, and then, to cap the climax, are trying to lay the blame 
on everyone except the right party — ourselves. 

Next to the disadvantage of distance from market, the other 
disadvantage that works out to their advantage is the inflated price 
of land. This compels the western grower to practice intensive cul- 
tivation, as compared with our extensive methods. An Illinois 
farmer sold his no acre farm and invested the entire price in lo 
acres of apple and pear orchard in Oregon, and on that orchard he 
was hiring as much help and using almost as many horses as he 
formerly used on his big farm in Illinois. Think of it ! No wonder 
that he produced the very finest fruit that sold at the highest price. 
If you and I would let about three-fourths of our land lie in grass 
or simply rest and then on the balance of the land devote all of 
our usual energy and brains, we might not produce quite as many 
bushels of fruit as before, but we would have nearly as much of a 
much higher quality and our profits, reputation and happiness would 
be increased many fold. 

When you stop to think that the price the western grower pays 
for transportation alone to my home market would be a big profit 
for me in my business and that I do not get it, simply proves that 
the statement with which I started — that I am not a good business 
man. I wish that I could drive home to you the insult, if you have 
any manhood in you, that that man gave to us when he said we 
would not do these things. He did not say we couldn't ; he did not 
say that we lacked natural advantages, but he said we lacked nerve ; 
that we lacked the western spirit of ''get up and get." That state- 
ment rankles in my breast and it ought to in yours. God gave Mich- 
igan, Pennsylvania, New York and all this grand country wonder- 
ful opportunities and if we fail, no one is to share the blame with us. 

The western apple excels in what I call "finish" and in addition 
to freedom from insect and fungus injuries, that finish is largely 
due to high color. Just as long as attractiveness to the eye is the 
first standard by which the buyer selects his purchases, richness of 
color will be an essential. While our best fruit authorities may dis- 
agree as to the possibilities of increasing color in fruit by the ap- 
plication of potash, phosphoric acid or other chemicals, no one can 
deny that the one great cause for color is sunshine — God's great gift 



Tig 

to man. While the west may have a little more of sunshine, on ac- 
count of their dry atmosphere, do we not have sunshine here in the 
east? The chief point of difference lies in the fact that the method 
of growing trees in the west is such as to make the greatest possi- 
ble use of that sunshine, while we in the east are so anxious to get 
an immense amount of bearing wood on our trees and also crowd 
our trees so that they interlace, thus making our orchards appear 
more like a forestry proposition. Their trees are low and with 
open heads — vase form. In our greed we leave so much brush in 
our trees that a sparrow can hardly fly through them. We over- 
work our trees and then starve them. They restrict their trees by 
severe pruning and thinning of the fruit so that the trees can do 
their best and keep it up. In trying to discourage us the western 
land agent says we could not have their kind of open heads, that 
"The sun scald would kill your trees." Don't you believe it. The 
only disease we need fear in the east is "dry rot" and the most 
violent form of this disease is where it attacks the man rather than 
the tree. 

While we must be more thorough in our spraying, we must 
practice more intelligent pruning and thinning of fruit if we want 
the high grade that is skimming the cream from our own markets. 
I know that some of my eastern horticultural friends are issuing 
words of caution for fear that we will prune too much, and thus 
"upset the balance" or do something equally unwise. Did you ever 
stop to consider that our "forestry" methods have been standing us 
on our heads so long that we have lost all thought of any "bal- 
ance"? What, pray, will restore the "balance" to a starved root 
system, but to restrict by pruning the heavily loaded top? An 
overloaded and starved team are first relieved by removing a part 
of the load. Where you find one grower who has made the im- 
probable mistake of pruning his orchard too much, I can show you 
thousands of growers in leading fruit sections who do not prune 
enough and hundreds of others who do not prune at all. 

When the western grower sees an imperfect apple on his tree 
in the growing time, he realizes that that fruit can never grow to be 
anything but a cull and it is at once taken off to make room for 
other fruits. They thus grade their fruit on the trees, because they 
know that it takes as much of the vitality of the tree to ripen a cull 
as it does to put the finish on a perfect fruit. In the east the prac- 
tice is to leave all the fruits that set until harvest time, then paw 
them over on the packing table to find enough fairly good specimens 
to face out the barrel. What happens after that we blush to relate. 
You say it costs money to thin apples. Does it cost any more, or 
even as much, to pick off the extra fruits and break up the clusters 
in June, dropping the little culls on the ground, than to wait until 
harvest time and then pick the whole mess (and, by the way, that is 
a very good word) carry them down the ladders, pour out on the 
packing table, sort them and put the culls in the cider lot or in a 
more improper place? 



120 



Not only do we fail to grow as good fruit as we might, but we 
have had no system of grading and packing. Why are people not 
eating and cooking more apples? Have they lost their taste for 
apples? Why is the demand for bananas, oranges, grape fruit and 
western apples increasing while our own superior quality apples go 
begging a market? You know the reason. The man who buys a 
barrel of our apples buys them under a suspicion and pays a price 
accordingly. All business is and must be based on one principle — 
confidence. The average eastern pack of fruit does not command 
the respect of the consumer and the man who starts out to pack 
honestly and then market in the old way generally finds himself in 
bad company and too often suffers as did "old dog Tray." 

But the Sulzer bill, which takes effect next July, offers us a 
means of establishing a reputation and of being known as packing 
an honest grade, for which the consumer will eventually call and pay 
a good price. Let us adopt this new law and then by modern systems 
of distribution, through co-operative organizations, modeled after 
the western methods, we will enjoy increasing demands from a 
satisfied purchasing public, our markets will be steady, prices will 
be good and we will not only possess the cash and confidence and 
respect of our customers but we will have that self respect that 
comes from a feeling of work well done. 

Fennville, Michigan. 



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PRINCIPLES OF COOKERY AS APPLIED TO FARM 

COOKING. 



Mrs. Edith C. Sai^isbury. 



Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen: I do not feel that I 
am coming to an audience of strangers although I came a long way, 
because when I see a lot of people together I know that they have 
very much the same feeling toward my subject in all parts of the 
world ; they like to eat and are interested in good cooking. 

You have been studying this problem of cooking, perhaps, but 
have you ever stopped to consider how you can make money in 
cooking? Possibly I cannot tell you how you can make money in 
actual dollars and cents, but how you can save dollars and cents. 
I want to show you where you can make some changes and save 
some money. We have been told many times by people who have 
been making a special study of the subject, that half the cost of liv- 
ing is the cost of food. The increased cost of living partly comes 
from the amount we are spending on food. Is it necessary? Let us 
see for a few minutes. Suppose we think of the human body as a ma- 
chine. It is very much the same in several particulars as an engine. 
The engine is made of certain materials that require food, which is 
fuel ; that food will compare with human food. The body is differ- 
ent in this respect, that the fuel does not alone give the body its 
power to do work that is required of it, but also must build up that 
body and must supply heat, so we need the fuel of the body to do 
more than the fuel of the engine. We must have, then, food that 
will accomplish three things — build and repair tissue, give heat, and 
give energy. 

Every person should understand food values. I have seen men 
at hotels who would take the bill of fare, look it over, and pick out 
the things they like, perhaps. Very few men care to select for 
themselves. They will start off with soup, then some meat, or they 
may take a couple of kinds of meat, then baked beans ; then begin 
on vegetables, some macaroni, potatoes — perhaps white potatoes and 
sweet potatoes. Then they will go on down the list and order half 
the things there. When they get to the desserts, they take three or 
four of those. I have counted as many as thirty-five little dishes 
around one man's plate ; not more than half the contents eaten. It 
was not what he ate but what he wasted that cost so much. Do you 
wonder why living is high ? 

If the man had known just exactly what he should have eaten 
for the good of his health, and how to keep the human machine in 
the right kind of repair, he would have selected a little more wisely. 
He would have taken something for energy and heat, also he would 
have taken two other classes of food that are very necessary to 

121 



122 



health — some mineral matter and some water that would make the 
food soluble and assist in carrying it to the tissues. 

We have five classes of foods. One class builds tissues, and is 
represented in nine kinds of food — lean meat, fish, white of egg, 
curd in milk, cheese, gluten in bread, legumin in peas and beans, and 
nuts. This is the only kind of food that will build tissue. It is the 
class of food that supplies nitrogen. You farmers like to feed 
alfalfa to your stock, because it too contains nitrogen, but you don't 
care to give all the nitrogenous food at one time, so why should you 
take fish and all the kinds of meat you can mention, and eggs, all at 
the same meal ? 

I have seen all of these nine tissue-building foods in one meal. 
Even though so many foods may not harm your digestive organs, 
it takes too much time to prepare them. There are three things we 
all want to do, to save time, save energy, and save money. Now the 
meal which has all those nine tissue-building things costs too much. 

We want some foods that will give heat, and this we get from 
fatty foods. This class of food consists of butter, cream, the fat of 
all meats, olive oil and other oils which we use in cooking ; these are 
known as the heat producing foods. 

Then for energy producing foods, those that give us power to 
move our arms and do anything we wish, we have another class that 
includes sugar and starch. Most people who are fat are fond of 
starches and sugars. 

Some one has said that one big difference between man and 
other animals is that man likes his food cooked. We like all kinds 
of animal food cooked, as they are more palatable, but by cooking we 
harden the albumen which we find in all animal foods, and this 
makes it a little more difficult to digest. 

Cooking is something that we do more or less of three times a 
day, and if a woman is successful she is rather interested in it. We 
have heard about luck in cooking ; there is no such thing as luck in 
this particular line of work. If a cake is not a success there is 
some good reason why it failed. There is no more luck in cooking 
than there is in a druggist mixing up a prescription. If you went 
to a drug store to get a prescription filled, and after waiting a while, 
the druggist gave it to you with the apology that he had had bad 
luck with it, you would not think very much of that chemist. It is 
just the same with cooking. Certain rules must be followed. I 
must know how to combine ingredients ; I must have a certain tem- 
perature, then I will always get the same results. If you are not a 
successful cook, do not think that Fortune has not smiled on you 
as kindly as she has on some one else, but there is some mistake 
in your method, or you are not interested in it sufficiently to give 
it care. 

The more you are in the open air, the more you are going to eat, 
just the same as the more air you give a stove, the more fuel it will 
use. A certain manufacturer was confronted with the subject of 
ventilation in his factory. He put in a better system of ventilation 



123 



and the women and girls came to him in a very short time and said, 
"You will have to take away this fresh air and ventilation, because 
we cannot afford to eat as much as we are eating now." He, being a 
wise man, said, "I will increase your wages." Invariably you will 
find that people who are out in the open air will require more to 
eat than those who work in closed rooms, and that is why a farmer 
requires more to eat than a man in a store or office. 

If I should tell you that with some bread and butter, a glass of 
milk and some of these apples, you would have just as much nour- 
ishment as your body can take care of, would you believe it? You 
would stand just as good a chance of being well developed as if you 
sat down to as big a fare as could be suggested. You say you 
would not be satisfied with it. Why ? Not because your hunger re- 
quired more, but because you have developed an abnormal appetite. 
Americans have this appetite more than other people, but we are not 
any healthier than some of the other nationalities. We do not show 
up any better when it comes to times of great muscular effort. The 
excess food does not do us any particular good, probably some harm, 
for lots of people about middle age have some form of stomach 
and liver troubles, which is generally due to mistakes in diet. The 
simple fare is quite as nourishing as the more elaborate. You will 
get all the body requires, all the tissue-building material and all the 
heat and energy necessary from a piece of cheese, bread and butter, 
— and a cup of tea, if you wish. I would add to it some celery or 
some other kind of vegetable, or some apple sauce, if you wish ; we 
get most of the mineral matter from the vegetables and fruits. The 
simpler the bill of fare the better it is for your health and your 
pocketbook. 

As to the principles of cooking; it is well to spend more time 
making things better, if you can, than to try to make so many 
things at once. You cannot bake pies and cakes and roast beef in 
the oven at the same time, and have them all equally satisfactory. I 
would far rather sit down to a table with nothing on it but mashed 
potatoes and roast beef, if they are correctly prepared, than a long 
bill of fare badly cooked. Speaking of mashed potatoes, I do not 
know of anything that is more likely to cause dissension in a family 
than a watery potato served instead of that feathery, light, fluffy, 
dish of potatoes that is like a snowdrift. There is nothing more 
delicious or more digestible than baked potato. If it is left in the 
oven too long it is heavy, soggy, and tough-skinned and not half 
what it should be. 

There is no better way to prepare beefsteak than to broil it. 
There are some men who can cook a steak better than women. I 
have alwavs found that when a man can cook he usually does it well, 
because he takes pride in it. He knows where the best steak comes 
from and he is particular about rules and directions. He wants a 
good, hot fire, glowing coals, and a broiler or a frying pan just as 
hot as he can get it. He cooks the steak on the outside quickly, to 



124 



keep the juices in. He knows that if the juices are not in the meat 
when he cuts it, it is not a success. 

A man often makes a better cup of coffee than some women, 
because he makes only one thing at a time and gives all his atten- 
tion to it. He has freshly boiled water and measures out his coffee 
carefully. Many women will not measure, they use a "pinch" here 
and a ''little" there. The high priced chefs and cooks are not women, 
but men. A man makes coffee stronger sometimes than a woman, 
because he knows that it is not a good thing to cook coffee a long 
time in order to draw out all the good, as the bad comes out at the 
same time. 

Question. Will you tell us how to make good coffee? 

Mrs. Salisbury. Take two level tablespoons of coffee to each 
cup of coffee to be made. If eggs are not too high, use an egg and 
the broken shell to six or eight cups. The white of the egg settles 
the coffee and the yolk makes it richer and improves the color. If 
you have good cream it will be good enough without the egg. Mix 
the coffee, egg and water and put over the fire, when it comes to the 
boiling point let it simmer for two or three minutes on the back of 
the range. The cover of the coffee pot should be tight to keep in 
the aroma. 

There is a right and a wrong way to boil eggs. There is a 
right and a wrong way to boil water. For drinking, hot water 
should be used when it is bubbling; freshly boiled is the only kind 
that is used to make tea. Do not allow the water on the tea to stand 
more than four or five minutes or too much tannin will be extracted. 

Always women are going to have more or less to do of the home 
affairs. If they are not going to do the actual work themselves they 
will have to manage it. Do not let a girl grow up and marry and go 
into a home of her own unless she has a knowledge of home making. 
It is a business worth studying and when you study it you will find 
that there is a good deal in it. Don't think just because you are 
keeping house you are doing nothing worth while. You are en- 
gaged in one of the greatest works. Home-making is a subject 
every woman should know because it is woman's work. Don't think 
that the girls should be denied the knowledge because you had a 
hard time learning to cook, but insist that they understand the 
science of it. 

I read a story about a boy whose only work in a factory was to 
make bolts. All day long he had nothing to do but run a piece of 
metal up to a certain machine and hold it there until the bolt was 
made. It got monotonous, but instead of giving it up the boy de- 
cided to get something more out of it if possible. He began by try- 
ing to eliminate energy and to make more bolts with a decrease of 
effort. In a few years he was an expert in eliminating work in 
foundries. The same thing will apply in cooking. You cook pota- 
toes every day ; try to see if there is some other way to do it, to save 
energy and get better results. Save time for yourself and study new 
methods and you will find new interest. 



1^5 

Questions and Answers. 

Can you tell us how the man makes good coffee? 

Mrs. Salisbury. He knows the number of cups of coffee he 
is to make and he allows two level tablespoons of coffee for each 
cup. If cream is scarce, or if he likes the beverage especially rich, 
he mixes the ground coffee with part of an egg, using the crushed 
shell (he washes it first) as well. Then he adds one cup of cold 
water and mixes egg and coffee well together, then adds the re- 
mainder of the water, measuring it exactly, puts the coffee pot over 
the fire and lets it come to a boil slowly. He stirs it occasionally 
to allow the water to thoroughly penetrate through the coffee. 
After boiling just one minute he sets the coffee back on the range 
where it will simmer, and not boil, for three or four minutes. Boil- 
ing extracts too much tannin from the coffee and that is the ob- 
jectionable property. The coffee pot must be tightly covered to 
prevent the escape of the volatile oils which give it its fragrant 
aroma. The white of the egg settles the coffee and the yolk gives 
it is better color and richer flavor. If cream is scarce, serve the 
coffee with scalded milk, instead of cold, and you will have a better 
beverage. 

Question. How do you like the coffee percolator? 

Mrs. Salisbury. I think the percolator makes ideal coffee. 
Both coffee and water are used in the right proportion; the coffee 
is placed in the upper part of the percolator, the boiling water is 
below. The steam rises, passes through the coffee ground, con- 
denses on a little metal disk at the top then goes back through the 
coffee taking the extract with it. The water does not stand on the 
coffee grounds and there is less chance of extracting the tannin by 
this process of making. Some people make excellent coffee without 
boiling while others do not consider the flavor quite as finished if 
it has not, at least, been brought to the boiling point. Either 
method is correct so long as the boiling is not continued for any 
length of time and if the coffee is not allowed to stand on the 
grounds. 

Question. What is the right way to broil a steak ? 

Mrs. Salisbury. You should have the steak cut at least one 
inch thick and have either a glowing bed of hot coals or a ''sissing" 
hot frying pan. Do not use any more fat in the pan than just suf- 
ficient to prevent sticking ; wipe the steak with a damp cloth, do not 
put it in water to wash as this extracts the juice. Put the steak 
in the hot pan, or on the broiler, and it will sear immediately, that 
is, the albumen on the surface of the meat will be hardened. Turn 
over the steak and sear on the other side. If you are using a broiler, 
turn it from side to side until the meat is well seared; if you are 
broiling in a pan turn the meat several times during the first two or 
three minutes but turn it with a knife instead of a fork, as piercing 
with a fork causes the juices to flow. When the meat is well seared 
on both sides cook at a lower temperature until it is done to suit 



126 



you — about 12 minutes for rare and 15 to 18 minutes for well done. 
Do not add the salt until the steak is almost done and when it has 
been removed to a hot platter dot it over with small bits of butter, 
this improves the flavor. Steak should always be cooked until it 
is pink, not dark red, in the center. A dark red streak through the 
middle shows that the temperature was not sufficiently high — 160 
degrees Fahr. — to kill germs if any had been present. If the steak 
has been properly cooked there should be very little if any juice in 
the pan. Do not cover the pan if you are broiling; this method of 
cooking meat is suitable only for the tenderest portions, such as 
tenderloin and porterhouse; steaks cut from the round and some 
parts of the sirloin are better if they are not cooked so rapidly. 

Question. What is the best way to cook these apples? 

Mrs. Salisbury. Apples are delicious cooked in any way, but 
I think the simplest is the best way, using very little sugar or spice 
in the cooking in order to preserve just as much of the natural 
apple flavor as possible. A baked apple, that is one baked without 
sugar and without spice, is about the best way of all and apple sauce 
is a close second; then I think there are few things more pleasing 
to the palate than a pie well filled with tart, good-flavored apples. 

Question. What do you think of the fireless cooker? 

Mrs. Salisbury. I think it is one of the best aids we have in 
cooking; it saves fuel and time and generally results in better 
cooking. Of course if you are burning coal or wood and have a fire 
in the range all the time the saving of fuel is not so important as 
it is when gas or kerosene is the fuel and when the oven must be 
heated specially every time it is used. But even then there is the 
matter of saving time and that is important. When you have put 
anything to cook in the fireless it requires no more attention until 
it is finished and if you had the temperature sufficiently high to start 
with there is no question but that it will be deliciously cooked — 
tender and juicy and all the flavor retained. 



§^#vl J ^fAFSIIVA ^^^^ keeping 

^UIU iJlUiagC fruit— everybody knows 

that. The Madison Cooper Brine System, 

using ice and salt for cooling, gives the best results, 
and those who are using this system know that, too. 

WRITE US FOR DESCRIPTIVE MATTER ESTIMATES AND SUGGESTIONS 

MADISON COOPER COMPANY 

•^Snf A?c1rue«?.^'v 123 Couit Sttcet, Calcium, N. Y. 



127 



FARMERS MAKE MONEY 

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Bough's 1913 Almanac just out. Ask your dealer for it or write us. 



128 




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part carries the strongest guarantee. Can be operated 
for less expense per mile than any car known. 

5-Passenger Touring Car - - $600 

2 - Passenger Roadster ... $525 

Town Car $800 

Delivery Car, 1000 lbs. capacity - $650 

F. O. B, Detroit, Mich. $25 freight on each. 
GET IN TOUCH WITH 

J. W. Richley Auto Co. 

DISTRIBUTORS 

237 E. Philadelphia St., :-: York, Pa. 



129 




Price $1650, Fully Equipped 

B UICK 

Stands for power, durability and long wearing 
qualities, also the most beautiful design and finish 
for 19 1 3. Any Buick Car will last a lifetime if 
used as a car should be used. No other com- 
petitor can give you more real automobile value 
for a dollar. The overhead value Buick motor 
will produce 30 per cent, more power on 20 per 
cent, less gasoline than any other motor on earth. 
Any man can clean a Buick motor and grind all 
valves in two hours without disturbing a single 
vital part, that is what has made the ^uick Motor 
Co. the largest automobile factory in the world. 
Five Passenger Touring Cars $1030, $1285 and 
$1650, Two Passenger Roadsters $950 and 
$1125, F. O, B,, Flint, Mich, 

GET A FREE DEMONSTRATION 

J. W. Richley Auto Co. 

237 E, Phila,, St, YORK, PA. 



I30 




At TBI' Evaporator. 
A CtOocI Place for the Culls. 



THE 

Citizen's Trust Company 

OF GETTYSBURG 

President, Vice Pres., Treasurer, 

GEO. W. SWARTZ W. T. ZEIGLER H. L. SNYDER 

Your Bank Account and Trust Business Solicited 

qWe pay 3><% on CERTIFICATE if left 60 days or 
more. We act as Guardian, Trustee, Administrator or Ex- 
ecutor, in settling up estates. 

^ Courteous treatment and prompt attention to business a 
feature. 

R. WM. BREAM, Secretary. 



131 



Established 1887 100 Acres 

Kelly Bros. Fruit Trees 

Direct from the Nursery to the Planter 

WE grow our own trees and can guarantee them 
true to name, which we believe is the most 
essential part of the fruit tree business. We are lo- 
cated in the famous Genesee Valley, the best locality 
in the world for growing healthy fruit trees. Mr. 
Barton, the N. Y. state inspector unreservedly says 
that he has never found San Jose Scale in the nur- 
series at Danville. 

Write us to-day for JUustrated Catalogue 

KELLY BROTHERS 

20 Main Street :-: DANSVILLE, N. Y. 




Neat Facing is Not Dishonest Packing. 
Both Alike to the Bottom. 



132 



Capital, $145,150 
Deposits, $930,000 

Pa\^s per cent, on Special Deposits 



^ We offer the public the use of our large fire-proof and 
burglar-proof safe deposit vaults FREE. 



WM. McSHERRY. President 



E. M. BENDER, Cashier 




State College Students at Work Gathering Tomatoes. 



133 




OXE OF THK GrKKXHOUSES AT StaTE CoiXEGE, ShOWIXG THE StuDEXT PeoTS. 




No. 1 , FOLDING CRATE, with or without cover. 
See catalog for other styles and sizes. 
OVER 15.000.000 IN USE TO-DAY. 



^THE IRON BOUND 



T 
E 



UMMER line of 
RATES, for every service, 
ANNOT be excelled. 

IGID, collapsable or folding 
IGHT in all proportions 
EASONABLE in price. 

LL materials used 

RE carefully selected and construction 
SSUREDLY honest throughout. 

AKE our word for it 
HIS brief statement is worthy 
O fill your "pipe of reflection." 

ACH crate is as nearly 
VERLASTING as is humanly possible and 
NCOMIUM encourages examination. 

TRONG language is never 
ERVICEABLE unless backed up by the goods 
END for catalog and price list. 



CUMMER M'F'G. CO., 

Cadillac, Mich., or Flora Dale, Pa., Box 45-T 



134 




PiCKixG Adaais Couxty York Imperial. 
Nothing But P'ancy Fruit in Sight. 




Adams County Grows Fine Fruit. 



135 





4 

Good 
Business 
Propositions 

Any one or more of which can be ob- 
tained on a very small investment. 

No. I Upper left ORCHARD KING Pruner with 
its double acting compound lever cuts a two 
inch limb easily. 

No. 2 Upper right KANSAS Improved automatic 
in action, no hand levers to bother, its quick 
and cuts a limb 1 inches. 

No 3 Lower left HAPPY THOUGHT a fast one for 
setting back, budding, etc. Capacity ^ inch 
limb. 

No. 4 The DETROIT, another with a pump 
gun speed and an inch limb capacity. 

Don*t overlook these high quality knives, but 
for your own best interest ask for our 
illustrated circulars and prices. 
Just mail a card NOW to 

International Tool Company 



169 Brooklyn Ave. 



DETROIT, MICHIGA 



N I 



136 




We Grow Luscious Strawberries, Also. 



137 



ELECTRICITY {^0^! 

Save Money, Time and Labor 



P 
R 
A 
C 
T 
I 

C 
A 
L 




E 
C 
O 
N 
O 
M 
I 

C 
A 
L 



DEAN HOMELITE PLANT 



will not only light every room in your home and outbuildings^ but it 

will operate your feed cutter, washing machine, food chopper, sewing 

machine, grindstone, cream separator, ventilating fans, or, in fact 

ANYTHING that uses electricity for power. 

C You can easily set up the Dean "HOMELITE" Plant. 

C Installing instructions furnished with each Plant, are so complete 

that a mere novice can install it. 

€L The engine and dynamo comes to you mounted on one skid; 
the storage batteries and power board complete the equipment. 
CL Starts by simply throwing in a switch — no cranking. 
C So simple that a child can operate it. 

C By the use of storage batteries we arrange so that you charge 
them for a certain period during the day and then they supply the 
light at night — without running the engine — an ideal system. 

THE DEAN ELECTRIC COMPANY 

1053 Taylor Street ELYRIA, OHIO 

"Look for Dean Where Quality's Seen" 



!38 




A \A'eiJv Tilled Orchard. 



CRESTMONT EDGEWOOD 

J. G. STOVER 



Bendersville, Pa. 




CLEARBROOK, ARDEN and PROSPECT ORCHARDS 
OVER 500 ACRES IN ORCHARD 



'39 



Trees ! Trees ! Trees ! 

Among the 1 00,000 apple trees we have to offer for 
Spring of 1913 are 

20,000 Stay man's Winesap 

5,000 Grimes* Golden 
5,000 Jonathan, all 2 years, 4}2--6 feet 

Also other varieties in lots not quite so large. We can also 
offer a large lot of one year apples — all leading varieties 

€[[ The peach orchard proposition is now booming. Money to be made 
in this line. Have us quote you stock. Can offer 75,000 to 90,000 
fine peach trees at this date. 

The Mountain View Nursery Co. 

WILLIAMSPORT, MARYLAND 

Everything in Nursery Stock 




Adams County York Imperials — "None Better Grown." 



I40 




CHESTNUT BLIGHT. 



AT- 

''The Home of Fine Clothes" 

You will find gift suggestions for 
all, from baby to grandparents 

When in town mak.e our place your headquarters 
To all A Merr^ Christmas 

Funkhouser & Sachs 

"'The Home of Fine Clothes" 

GETTYSBURG, PA. 



HI 



The Christmas Store 



Ready — Everything ready. The Gift things have all 
been here for several days 



HANDKERCHIEFS — The Great Christmas article. Never so 
many as now. Ladies', Gentlemen's and Childrens. A beau- 
tiful line of them — Ic. to $1.00 each. Japanese hand-marked 
linens, all sizes. Other linens of all kinds. 

GLOVES, FURS, BLANKETS, RUGS, HOSIERY 

A beautiful line of Ladies' Neckwear for Christmas. Gent's 
Neckwear. Special prices given on Ladies' Coats for Holidays. 

See our line of Christmas Fancy Novelties before purchasing elsnvhere 

DOUGHERTY & HARTLEY, Gettysburg 




Skinner System ok Irrigation With Ceeery. 



142 




Modern Methods 
Mean Money to You 

Time Was When Any Old Thing Would Do 

Any old field for an orchard (often too steep or too rocky or too 

poor for anything- else) 
Any old trees, of any old variety, set any old way 
Any old cultural methods (or none) coupled with any old care (if any) 
Any old ladder, plus any old saw ( or ax) equaled any old pruning 

(or butchering) 

Any old spray material, applied at any old time with any old sprayer 
Any old grading (or none) packed in any old barrel or box. Result 

(of necessity) 
ANY OLD PRICE 

IT WON'T DO IN THE TWENTIETH CENTURY 

Only by using modern methods can you hope to 

GET YOUR SHARE 

Poor equipment is worse than foolish. It means loss every time 

Use sharp pruning tools of approved type (WE HAVE THEM) 
Cultivate with Cutaway and Forkner Light Draft Harrows (ASK 

US FOR CATALOGS) 
Use the best ladders you can buy (NONE BETTER THAN 

TILLEY'S) 

Select spray materials with care, lack oj it spells loss (PRATT AND 
BOWKER BRANDS HAVE PROVED GOOD, we are 
sole agents for Pennsylvania) 

Apply them with best apparatus available (AIR TIGHT SPRAY- 
ERS, po<tver, GOULD AND E. C. BROWN hand and 
knapsack ARE THE CREAM catalogs for the asking 

Carefully picked and graded fruit packed in neat, clean boxes or 
barrels will always command good prices. We supply orchard 
crates, Oregon boxes, standard New York barrels, barrel presses 
and all paper requisites needed in packing fancy fruit 

Write us for any Orchard Requisite. If we cannot supply it we can 
probably tell you where to get it 

SPECIAL PRICES TO MEMBERS F. G. A. 

ASK US ABOUT IT 

EDWIN C. TYSON, Ki?^^^: 

WHOLESALE AND RETAIL 
ORCHARD TOOLS AND SUPPLIES 



143 



ADAMS COUNTY FRUIT RECORDS 

Shipments Over Gettysburg & Harrisburg R. R. 







































'S. 










■r. ~ 

r- 










'■ ' 


H-i 




ID 


6 


d 


d 




>< 


1^ 








1905 


318 


333 


651 


(G. & H. R. R.) 


1906 


28 




28 


1907 


127 




127 


1909 


12 




12 


1910 


50 




50 


1911 


41 




41 


1912 


123 




123 


Biglerville, 


1903 


8813 


987 


9800 


1905 


7932 




7932 


1906 


2785 


165 


2950 


1907 


17164 


4216 


21380 


1908 


4956 




4956 


1909 


10785 


137 


10922 


1910 


20017 


1500 


21517 


1911 


37897 


552 


38449 


1912 


26521 


779 


27300 




1903 


2870 


2413 


5283 


1905 


1771 


1166 


2937 


1906 


1414 


1329 


2743 


1907 


4798 


2760 


7858 


1908 


2173 




2173 


1909 


7320 




7320 


1910 


11659 


1267 


12926 


1911 


13600 


363 


13963 


1912 


4713 


574 


5287 


Rendersville 




4163 




4163 


1905 


4000 


2351 


6351 


1906 


1109 


1561 


2670 


1907 


2824 


6268 


9092 


1908 


2264 




2264 


1909 


3531 


1200 


4731 


1910 


5628 


2132 


7760 


1911 


8894 


366 


9260 


1912 


4251 


946 


5197 




bo 
53 
20 
142 
33 
73 
144 
256 
182 
35 
20 
18 
52 
15 
49 
86 
93 
35 
28 
42 
18 
61 
15 
32 
52 
62 
35 



1 00 $0 70 

2 20 

1 40 

2 50 



1 50 $0 50 
75 65 
1 50 55 



00 
00 
50 



80 



45 



2 35 

1 50 

2 50 
2 00 
2 00 
1 50 



1 50 



80 



45 



16 
20 
22 
21 
15 
30 
7 
30 



2 25 

1 40 

2 50 
2 00 
2 00 
1 50 



1 50 
1 50 



50 
65 
50 



80 



50 



Biglerville— 1 910, i car cherries; 4 cars cider syrup; 43 cars canned apples; 5 cars 
evaporated apples; 191 1, 3 cars cider syrup; 100 cars canned apples; 8 cars evaporated 
apples; 1912, i car pears; 42 cars canned apples. 

Guernsey — 1910, 7 cars peaches; 1911, 210 pkgs. pears; 240 pkgs. plums; 650 pkgs. 
cherries; 1912, 350 pkgs. peaches; 120 bushels pears. 

Bendersville — -1908, 2 cars pears; 1910, i car pears; 4 cars peaches; 191 1, i,oog 
baskets peaches; 3 cars pears; 1912, 2,880 baskets peaches; i car pears; 3 cars evaporated 
apples. 



144 




Save Your Fruit From Damage* 

THE widespread increase of the codling; moth and other insects injuri- 
ous to fruit trees causes an annual loss to growers of seven million 
dollars a year. The surest way for you to prevent your fruit from 
being wormy or badly damaged is to carry out a regular plan of spray- 
ing with some reliable material. 

Sherwin-Williams 
NEW PROCESS ARSENATE OF LEAD 

is a general insecticide for all leaf-eating insects. It is superior to many 
other brands on the market, because it contains the arsenic in exactly the 
right proportion and the proper chemical combination, thus insuring a 
material that will not injure or scorch the foliage but is sure death to in- 
sects feeding on the leaves. It is extremely miscible in water and will 
combine readily with Lime-Sulfur and Bordeaux Mixture. Light in grav- 
ity, it remains well in suspension so that a uniformly poisonous spray 
can be thrown from the finest nozzle* For prices and turther informa- 
tion on this product, come in and see us* 69* 

"PARASITES LIVE ON THE PROFITS" 

Save your fruit and crops from damage with 

Sherwin- Williams High Quality Insecticides 

S-W New Process Arsenate of Lead (Paste) S-W Paris Green 

S-W New Process Arsenate of Lead (Powdered) S-W Bordeaux Mixture 

S-W Lime Sulfur Solution S-W Pruning Compound 

S-W Carbolinol (Vermicide) 

Send for our Hand-book, "Spraying a Profitable Investment" 

The Sherwin- Williams Co. 

Manufacturers of High Quality 
PHILADELPHIA, PA. Insecticides and Fungicides NEWARK, N. J. 



145 



Adams County Fruit Records 

Shipments Over Gettysburg & Harrisburg R. R. — {Continued) 







shipped 
Is. 


shipped 
Ik 


Total 


Apples 
to Car) 


Potatoes 
to Car) 


Paid 
bl. 


Paid 

for Bulk 


Paid 1 
Potatoes 




Year 


No. Bbls. 
In bbl 


No. Bbls. 
In bu 


No. Bbls. 


No. Cars . 
(150 Bbls, 


No. Cars 
(500 bus. 


Av. Price 
Per B 


Av. Price 
Per Bbl. 


Av. Price 
Per Bus. 



Gardners, 



Starners, 



Hunters Run, . 
(Good year) 



G. & H. R. R., 

Total 



1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1912 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1912 
1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1912 
1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1912 



997 
912 



985 1982 13 
5215 6127 41 



6905 
433 
2275 
1566 
3900 
1860 
682 
664 
1572 
487 
1825 
2500 
2018 
2000 
625 
160 
295 
1417 
1704 
1289 
2103 
3750 
2040 
17468 
15617 
6295 
34797 
12017 
27037 
43523 
70100 
41508 



5440 

4571 
3722 
4800 

1016 
133 
219 



2192 
668 
563 

160 
262 
514 

510 
2190 
300 

4385 
9908 
3450 
19217 

6426 
13003 
7049 
2862 



12345 
433 
6846 
5288 
8700 
1860 
1698 
797 
1791 
487 
1833 
4692 
2686 
2563 
625 
320 
557 
1931 
1704 
1799 
4293 
4050 
2040 
21853 
25525 
9745 
54014 
12017 
33463 
56526 
77149 
44370 



82 
3 
46 
35 
58 
12 
11 
5 
12 
3 
12 
31 
18 
17 
4 
2 
4 
13 
11 
12 
29 
27 
14 
146 
170 
65 
360 
80 
223 
377 
514 
296 



4 $1 75 $1 50 $0 50 

1 

1 35 

1 

. 2 00 

1 50 45 



1 50 

2 50 
2 00 
2 00 
1 50 



55 



45 



1 50 
1 75 

1 50 

2 50 



75 



2 00 



47 
35 
56 
39 
26 
57 
9 
76 



1 45 

2 50 
2 00 
2 00 
1 50 



75 
1 50 



65 
55 
50 



80 



45 



Gardners — 1906. 2 cars pears; 1907, i car pears; 1908, 2 cars pears; 1910, 2 cars 
pears; 4 cars peaches; 191 1, 5 cars pears; 25 cars canned apples. 

Starners — 1910, 2 cars peaches; 191 1, 300 bushels pears; 200 baskets peaches; 1912, 
500 baskets peaches; 300 bushels pears. 



146 



THE"REITER" 

BOLSTER SPRING 




WITH 



I See That Hanger ^ 

The best bolster spring made. Complete and ready for use as sold. War- 
ranted and guaranteed in every way. These springs are just what FARMERS, 

GARDNERS, FRUIT GROWERS, PEDDLERS, DAIRYMAN, and TEAM- 
STERS want, as they will make their rough wagons ride as easy as any Spring 
Wagon, thus saving them the cost of Spring Wagons and enabling them to 
deliver Fruits, Vegetables, Eggs, etc., unbruised and unbroken from hauling 
and in as good condition as when they left home. 

With these Springs, wagons will 
pull easier and last longer, harness 
wear longer and horses work easier. 

These Springs don't work on top 
of the Bolster, like other Bolster 
Springs, but on each side in shackles, 
on the same principle as any high 
priced Spring Wagon. These Springs 
can't be broken by overloading or 
rebounding like a Spring Wagon. 
By overloading, the springs will 

work down on each side of the 

Bolster and the wagon will become rough again. In fast driving over rough 
roads the springs, not being attached to the bed or bolster, can't be broken by 
rebounding or lifting up of the bed. 

No one using a rough wagon should be without The Reiter Bolster Spring, 
as they will save the cost the first year. Remember they are warranted and 
guaranteed in every way. Made to carry from 1 ,000 to 1 0,000 pounds. 
Measure your wagon between standards and order a set; give them a fair trial 
and let your neighbors, friends and the dealer you got them from know what 
you think of them. 

W. C. REITER, Sole Maker 

Price on Application. WAYNESBORO, PA. 



The Reiter Bolster Spring 

ON THE 

American Farm Wagon 

you can haul or carry any and 
everything equal to any spring 
wagon and at one-half the cost. 



147 

Adams County Fruit Records — ^Continued) 

Shipments Over Western Maryland R. R. 



Orrtanna, 



McKnightstown. 



New Oxford, 



East Berlin, 



W. M. R. R. 

Total 



I >^ 
1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1912 
1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1912 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1912 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1912 
.1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1912 





-a 








c« 




<v 




to 


o 




in 


CO ^ 


Tota 


Appl 


o 


Pota 
to C 






(A 






u. ^ 






Bbl 


. Cai 


o 


o 


6 


d 


o 


o 


in 


Is 










T-l 




3300 
1062 
3659 
3177 
2686 
741 
8216 
7043 
8912 
3438 
7895 
2296 
3393 
1785 
7724 
14275 
26297 
4122 



6738 
10380 
7447 
7720 
4536 
8873 
22946 
33959 
14091 



2342 
1020 
840 
4045 
3846 
2798 

178 

254 
1155 

251 
2030 
1800 
2231 

520 
1033 



3300 
1062 
3659 
5519 
3706 
1581 
12261 
10889 
11710 
3438 
8073 
2550 
4548 
2036 
9754 
16075 
28528 
4642 
1033 



24 
37 
25 
10 
82 
73 
78 
23 
54 
17 
30 
13 
65 
107 
190 
31 
7 



$2 00 $1 50 $0 50 
2 40 1 50 



2 00 
1 50 



60 



1 

1-6 



1-3 
2 



1 00 1 00 47 

2 15 1 85 50 

1 75 

2 50 1 50 



2 00 
1 50 



60 



276 

695 

390 

275 152 

50 

1140 1193 

49 



276 
695 
390 
427 

50 
2333 

49 



3 



15 1-3 



$1 80 $0 90 $0 70 
2 25 2 25 60 



205 
1 

160 
80 


215 
2 

178 
80 
6738 


2 


















1 

y2 

45 


























1320 


11700 


78 


5 








1447 


8894 


59 


3 








13948 


21668 


144 


7 








2891 


7427 


49 


1 


1 


75 




4870 


13743 


91 


1-3 


2 


50 


1 50 


7135 


30081 


201 


2/2 








6637 


40596 


270 


iVa 


2 


00 




3550 


17641 


117 


3 


1 


50 


60 



Littlestown — 1910, 3 cars apples; 2 cars potatoes; 191 1, 2 cars apples; 1912, 5 cars 
potatoes. 

Dillsburg — 1910, 2 cars apples; 1911, 2 cars apples. 

McKnightstown — 191 1, i car pears; 1912, 40 bushels pears. 

Orrtanna — 191 1, 620 baskets peaches; 1912, 1,810 baskets peaches. 

Charmian — 191 1, 48 barrels apples; 1912, 40 barrels ap]>les; 50 bushels pears. 

Gettysburg — 191 2, 42 barrels apples; one-third car potatoes. 

Virginia Mills— 191 2, 300 barrels apples; 4 cars potatoes. 

Granite Station — 191 2, 400 barrels apples. 



148 




y THIS VALUABLE BOOK 

FREE 



MAIL THIS 
COUPON TO-DAY 



Name 



THIS book contains 
facts and figures of 
vital interest to every 
orchardist. 

Read its pages and learn 
how Red Cross Dynamite 
has been safely and prof- 
itably used for tree plant- 
ing, subsoiling and re- 
generating orchards. 

Every page is instruct- 
ively written and the sim- 
plicity of methods recom- 
mended insure success. 

Why continue to risk 
the life of fruit trees by 
planting in "Spade dug" 
holes when Red Cross 
Dynamite easily, cheaply 
and surely prepares the 
deep, broad and mellow 
root bed needed for rapid 
and sturdy growth of 
young trees ? 

Du Pont Powder 
Company, 

WILMINGTON, DELAWARE^ 



Adams County Fruit Growers' Assn., Penn. '12 



P. O. Address 



County 



State 



PLEASE GIVE US THIS INFORMATION 

Have you ever used explosives ? Yes No. For what purpose, stump 
or boulder blasting, tree-planting-, subsoiling, ditching, orchard regenerating, 
excavating. (Mark X over work done.) 

Shall you plant trees in the Spring of 1913 ? Yes No or Fall, 
1913? Yes No How large is your orchard ? Acres Trees 
(estimated). Shall you wish the name of a reliable agricultural blaster to do 
the dynamiting for you ? Yes No 



Adams County Fruit Records — {ConHnued) 

Total Fruit Marketed in County. 



Total shipped, . . . 



Evaporated, 



Canned, 



Cider, 



Total fruit, 



> 

1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1912 
1903 
1905 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1913 
1905 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1912 
.1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1912 
1903 
1905 
1906 
1907 
1908 
1909 
1910 
1911 
1912 



(—1 

6 

24206 
25997 
13742 
42517 
16553 
35910 
67219 
104659 
55599 



4385 
11228 

4897 
33165 

2891 
11296 
20138 
13686 

6412 

6547 
10670 

8333 



^6 
< . 

OS pq 

o 
o o 



go 



o 



IS 

> 

<: 



^ 03 



OJ 

O 

<! PL, 



28591 
37225 
18639 
75682 
19444 
47206 
87557 
118345 
62011 

6547 
10670 

8333 



191 

248 
124 
504 
129 
314 
583 
789 
413 
44 
71 
56 



52 
38 
63 
40 
27 
615^ 
10 
84 



$1 50 $0 75 $0 60 

2 50 1 50 50 

2 00 1 20 50 

2 00 75 1 00 



24206 
25997 
13742 
42517 
16553 
35910 
67219 
104659 
55599 



4666 
8600 
21750 
5000 
2400 
10000 
1673 
12398 
16700 
25000 
27108 
9524 
6670 
5714 
11120 
12500 
8000 
10932 
24298 
4897 
61022 
11234 
34074 
56558 
72936 
46520 



4666 31 

8600 57 
21750 145 

5000 33 

2400 
10000 

1673 
12398 
16700 
25000 167 
27108 181 

9524 

6670 

5714 
11120 
12500 

8000 
35138 234 
50295 335 
18639 124 
103539 690 
27787 185 
69984 465 
123777 825 
177595 1184 
102119 680 



16 
67 
11 

82 
111 



63 
44 
38 
74 
83 
53 



2 


25 


1 


75 


55 


1 


50 




75 


60 


2 


50 


1 


50 


50 


2 


00 


1 


20 


50 


2 


00 




75 


1 00 


1 


50 




80 


50 



Comparison of Percentages 



rt 


Per Cent, 
barreled 


Per Cent, 
sold bulk 


Per Cent, 
evaporated 


Per Cent, 
canned 


Per Cent, 
cider 


Per Cent, 
total fruit com- 
pared to 1903 


1903 


70 


12 


18 






100% 


1905 


52 


22 


26 






143% 


1907 


41 


32 


8 


10 


9 


295% 


1909 


51 


16 


7 


18 


8 


200% 


1910 


54 


16 


7 


14 


9 


356% 


1911 


59 


8 


12 


14 


7 


500% 


1912 


54 


6 


5 


27 


8 


344% 



Three cars evaporated apples; 62 cars canned apples; 3 cars pears; 5,600 baskets 
peaches. 



ISO 



GET THE BEST 

A Qood Spra\) Pump earns big profits and lasts for years 




THE ECLIPSE 

Is a good pump. As practical fruit growers we were using the 
common sprayers in our own orchards, found their defects and 
then invented the Eclipse. Its success practically forced us into 
manufacturing on a large scale. You take no chances. We 
have done all the experimenting. ^;^7J,^aiL''^^^^^^^^^ 

MORRILL & MORLEY, MFG. CO. , Benton Harbor, Mich. 
EDWIN C. TYSON, Distributor, Flora Dale, Pa. 



INDEX. 



A 

Addresses — 

"Peaches," 25-32 

"Essentials in Spraying," 33-35 

"Duties of Citizenship," 36-45 

"Winter Injuries to Fruit Trees," 46-55 

"The Use of Fertilization in Apple Orchards," 57-75 

"Peach Packing and Packages." 77-83 

"Grape Growing and Its Possibilities on a General Fruit 

Farm," 85-90 

"The Chestnut Blight," 91-98 

"Cover Crops and Their Effect on the Soil," 95-io6 

"Some Problems Confronting the Apple Grower of To- 
day," 107-110 

"Alfalfa," 111-116 

"Lessons from Western Apple Growers," 1 17-120 

"Principles of Cookery as Applied to Farm Cooking," . . 121-126 

Apple Varieties, T07 

Amendments, 19 

Adams, W. S. (Adv.), 56 

American Agricultural Chemical Co. (Adv.), 76 

Air Tight Steel Tank Co. (Adv.), 22-23 

Advertisers — 

Bowker Insecticide Co. (Spray Materials), 2 

J. G. Harrison & Sons (Nursery Stock), 4 

The Deming Co. (Sprayers), 6 

Deyo-Macey Engine Co. (Sprayers), 8 

G. P. Read (Packages and Cushions), 10 

B. G. Pratt Co. (Spray Materials), 12 

York Chemical Works (Fertilizers) 14 

Goulds Manufacturing Co. (Sprayers), 16 

Musselman Canning Co. (Greeting), 18 

T. H. Evans & Co. (Commission Merchants) 20 

Air Tight Steel Tank Co. (Power Sprayers), 22-23 

Keystone National Powder Co. (Dynamite), 24 

T. S. Hubbard Co. (Grape Vines and Small Fruits), .... 32 

U. S. Kleinfelter (Barrels), 55 

First National Bank, Gettysburg, 56 

Hill Top Orchards Warehouse Co., 56 

P. S. Orner, (Barrels), 75 

American Agricultural Chemical Co. (Fertilizers), 76 

Franklin Davis Nursery Co., 83 

Wickersham Nurseries, 84 

Battlefield Nurseries, 98 

Chas. Cooper & Co. (Sulphur) 106 

Cutaway Harrow Company, 120 

Madison Cooper Co. (Cold Storage Plants), 126 

Baugh & Sons Company (Fertilizers), 127 

J. W. Richley Auto Co. (Automobiles), 128-129 

Citizens Trust Co 130 

Kelley Brothers (Nursery Stock), 131 

Gettysburg National Bank, 132 

Cummer Mfg. Co. (Crates), 133 



15- 



-: SPRAY :- 

Ask us to send you Spraying 
Calendar and Directions FREE 



No matter whether yours is a large or a small spraying con' 
tract, our book on Spraying and Sprayers will be a great help 
to you. It tells you what spray mixtures to use, how to pre- 
pare mixtures, when to spray and how to spray to secure the 
^he best results. 

A SPRAYER To Suit Your Needs. 

Our line includes everything from the small hand sprayer uP 
to our Watson-Ospraymo machines and our famous Power Or" 
chard Spraying Rigs. 

Our LEADER Orchard Sprayers are typical modern ma- 
chines for large spraying operations. Equipped with liquid 
Agitators and Strainer-Cleaners. High class Gasoline 
Engine — can be used separately to furnish power for all kinds 
of farm work. 

The EMPIRE KING—ihe old reliable Barrel Spraying 
outrit. A great sprayer for general purpose work — sole reliance 
of thousands for spraying fruit, vegetables, shrubbery and small 
trees. Mechanical Agitation of liquid. Automatic 
Strainer cleaners. 



Hand, Bucket and 
Knapsack Spra y e r s. 
Something to suit 
EVERY REQUIRE- 
MENT— every one the 
best of its kind. 





Be sure to write and get our sprayer book before buying 
anything in the sprayer line. 

Address: 

FIELD FORCE PUMP CO., 

nth Street, East, 

Elmira, N. Y. 



X 

o 

> ^ 



153 



International Tool Co. (Pruning Tools), 135 

The Dean Electric Company (Electric Manufacturing- 
Plants), 137 

J. G. Stover (Orchards), 138 

The Mountain View Nurser}^ Co., 139 

Funkhouser & Sachs (Tailors), 140 

Dougherty & Hartley (Merchants), 141 

Edwin C. Tyson (Orchard Tools and Supplies), 142 

Sherwin-Williams Company (Spray Materials), 144 

W. C. Reiter (Bolster Springs), 146 

DuPont Powder Co. (Dynamite), 148 

Morril & Morley Mfg. Co. (Sprayers), 150 

Field Force Pump Co. (Sprayers), 152 

Light Draft Harrow Co. (Orchard Harrow), 154 

John S. Tilley (Ladders), 156 

Adams County Fruit Records, Gettysburg and Harrisburg 

R. R. Shipments, 143-145 

Western Maryland R. R. Shipments, 147 

Total Shipments and Total Fruit, 149 

Adams County Orchard Photographs, 134-136-139 

Advantages of Tower in Spraying, 34 

Of Agitator in Spraying, 34 

Alfalfa, ' 111-116 

Illustrations 112-114 

As Cover Crop, 74, 104 



B 

Baugh & Sons Company (i\dv.), 127 

Bowker Insecticide Co. (Adv.), 2 

Battlefield Nurseries (Adv.), 98 

Baskets, 78 

Bassets, C. E., 29, 52, 54, 33-35, 73, 117-120 

Black, W. H., 90,97 

Bolster Springs (Adv.), 146 

Banks (Adv.), 56,130,132 

Barrels (Adv.), 55,75 

Cushions, Caps and Circles for (Adv.), 10 

Blake, Prof. M. A., 46-55,77-83 

Barnyard Manure on Peaches, 31 

By Laws, 19-21 

Broiling Steak, 125 



C 



Committees, List of, 19 

Duties of, 19-21 

Cultivating Machinery (Adv.), 120, 154 

Constitution, 17 

Chestnut Blight, 91-98, 140 

Crates (Adv.), 133 

Crown Gall on Peach, 29 

Citizens Trust Co. (Adv.), 130 

Chas. Cooper & Co. (Adv.), 106 

Compressed Air Sprayer (Adv.), 22,23 

Crop Reports, 143, 145, 147, 149 

Commercial Lime Sulphur, 2, 144 

Cummer Mfg. Co. (Adv.j 133 

Cutaway Harrow Co. (Adv.), 120 

Cooking, 121-126 

Cover Crops, 30,99-106,74 

CoUingwood, H. W., 3^-45 



154 




FORKNER LIGHT-DRAFT 
HARROW-IN ACTION 

NOTE that every inch of soil is thoroughly cultivated, lifted and turned 
in long v^avy levels, thus exposing the maximum amount of soil surface 
to the chemical action of the sun. See how easily the driver can work up to 
tree trunk without having to dodge branches. Observe low center of gravity, 
width of cut, and ease with which each separate gang (there are four) can be 
raised to dump trash, or all hooked up in moving over road. 

WILL DO JUST AS GOOD WORK FOR YOU 

Dozens of Orchardists have proven it as shown by letters we have on file — 
One large grower, after thoroughlv testing a sample harrow ordered six more, 
but there is NO NEED TO TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT 

Write today for catalogue and 30 day trial offer. Select the size and type of 
machine best suited to your soil, we will ship one to any responsible party, and 

TRY IT IN YOUR ORCHARD-AT OUR RISK 

Send it back if you don't find it the finest cultivator made. Think of culti- 
vating 20 acres daily with 2 horses.. Do not delay, there is bound to be a tre- 
mendous demand for 1913 and late comers may be disappointed. 



LIGHT-DRAFT HARROW CO. 

910 E. Nevada St. Marshalltown, Iowa 

SOLE PENNSYLVANIA REPRESENTATIVE 

EDWIN C. TYSON, Flora Dale, Pa. 



155 



D 

Dean Electric Co. (Adv.), 137 

DuPont Powder Co. (Adv.), 148 

Deyo-Macey Engine Co. (Adv.), 8 

Deming Companv, (Adv.), 6 

Davis, Franklin & Co. (Adv.), 83 

Dues 17 

Duties of Officers, 19-21 

Discussion Following Addresses of — 

Prof. F. N. Fagan 29 

Prof. M. A. Blake, 52,83 

Dr. J. P. Stewart 73 

Mr. Lloyd S. Tenney 90 

Mr. Keller E. Rockey, 97 

Dr. J. S. Lipman 105, 116 

Mrs. Edith C. Salisbury 124 

"Duties of Citizenship," 36 

E 

Executive Committee, List of, 3 

Duties of 21 

Eldon, Robert M., 30, 52, 55 

Experimental Orchards, Report on, 57-/5 

Essentials in Spraving, 33-35 

Evans, T. H. & Co. (Adv.), 20 

Effect of Adding Plant Food to Orchards, 59 

Effect of Cover Crops on the Soil, 99-106 

F 

First National Bank, Gettysburg, (Adv.). 56 

Field Force Pump Co. (Adv), 152 

Food Required by Mature Orchards, 57-58 

Farm Credits, 42 

Food \'alues, 121 

Freezing of Trees, 46-55 

Fireless Cooker, 120 

Fruit. Adams County Records, 143, 145, 147, 149 

of Adams Co., at Pittsburg Show. ( iimsiratiuns) , 24, 35, 158 

Fertilizers 14, 76, 127 

For Orchards, 57-75 

Experiment in Adams Co 64-65 

Experiment in Bedford Co., 61 

Experiment in Lawrence Co., 60 

Recommendations, 69-70 

Tim.e and Method of Application, 71 

Funkhouser & Sachs (Adv.), • 140 

G 

Gould Mfg. Co. (Adv.), 16 

Grove, W. E., 31, 74 

Gettysburg Nat. Bank (Adv.), 132 

Gettysburg and Harrisburg R. R. fruit shipments, 143-145 

Grape Growing, 85-90 

Griest, A. W., 53- 116 

Georgia Carriers, 79, 80 

H 

Honest Packing, 43, ti7> 120, 131 

Harrison, J. G. & Sons (Adv.), 4 

Harvesting Peaches, Method of, 81 

Horticultural Requisites, 142 



156 




p 

c 



S 



V 



b 



Bale Lock 
Extension 

Quick and Positive 

Always keep 
rope hand 
close to lad- 
der when ope- 
rating top sec- 
tion. Pull rope 
to raise the 
traveling sec- 
tion. To lower 
traveling sec- 
tion ca.Try the 
hand slightly 
to the right 
while Bale is 
in vertical po- 
lock it, czvry 
hand to the left, always keep- 
ing rope hand close to the 
ladder and the Bale will drop 
in position and lock it secure 




sition. 



To 



Tripod 
Omega 
5, 6, 7, 8, 
10, 12, 13 
steps 




Tilley's Omega Tripod Step Ladder 



"First-class in every respect. Stiff, rigid, 
light and durable. All flat steps to stand on. 
The two lower steps are supported by, and 
rest on rounds which tie, support and thor- 
oughly brace the main ladder. Fully cov- 
ered by patents dated December 26, 1910. " 

"Beware of false statements from unscru- 
pulous competitors who are trj^ing to force 
the sale of their inferior goods by intimida- 
tion. The Pantentee and Manufac- 
turer is responsible, reliable, able 
and willing to protect his patrons 
and himself against bluffers." 



JOHN S. TILLEY 

Manufacturer of Ladders and Step Ladders of every description 
Factory, WATER VLIET, N. Y. 
Represented in Pennsylvania by 

EDWIN C. TYSON, Flora Dale, Pa. 



157 



I 

Illustrations — 

Sprayers (Adv.), 6, 8, i6, 22, 23, 150, 152 

Harrows (Adv.), I54 

Bolster Springs (Adv.), 146 

Ladders (Adv.), 156 

Spray Materials (Adv.), 144 

Crates (Adv.), 133 

Electrical Apparatus (Adv.), 137 

Pruning Tools (Adv.), 135 

Picking Adams Countv York Imperial, 134 

Well Tilled Orchard, .'. 138 

State College Greenhouses, 132-133 

Automobiles (Adv.), 129 

Effect of Fertilizers on Orchards, 60 

Baskets of Peaches, 78, 78a 

Crates of Peaches, 80, 80a 

Advantage of Thinning Peaches, 80a 

Plate of Apples, 134 

Cluster of Adams Co. Winter Banana, 136 

Chestnut Blight, 92, 96, 140 

Basket of Adams Co. York Imperials, 139 

Dish of Strawberries, 136 

Alfalfa, 112, 114 

Crimson Clover, 102 

Good Place for Cull Apples, 130 

Neat Honest Packing, 131 

Skinner System of Irrigation, 141 

Adams County Blue Ribbon Fruit at Pittsburg Show, 24, 35, 158 

International Tool Co. (Adv.), 135 

K 

Keystone Powder Co. (Adv.), 24 

Kelly Brothers (Adv.), 131 

Kinds of Food, 122 



L 

Lipman, Dr. Jacob P., 

Lime Sulphur, Method of Making, .... 

Little Peach, 

Light Draft Harrow (Adv.), 

Lessons from Western Apple Growers, 

M 

Membership, Roll of, 

Constitutional Requirement for, . 
Manure vs. Nothing on Apples (Illus.), 

Manure vs. Fertilizer, 

Marketing, 

Musselman Canning Co. (Adv.), 

Madison Cooper Co. (Adv.), 

Morrill & Morley Mfg. Co. (Adv.), ... 
Mountain View Nursery Co. (Adv.), .. 
Making Good Coffee, 

O 



Officers, List of, 3 

Consist of, 17 

Duties of, 18, 21 

Object of Association, 17 

Order of Business, 21 

Orchard Heaters, 32 



99-106, 111-116 
33, 83 
29 
154 
117, 120 



9, II 



13 
17 
60 
66 
77, 82 
18 
126 
150 
139 
124 



158 

Orchard Fertilizer Test Outlined, 72 

Orner, P. S. (Adv.), 75 

P 

Permanent Effect of Fertilizers, 63 

Parcel Post, 42 

Pratt, B. G. Co. (Adv.), 12 

Pure Food, 43 

Pruning Peach, 27, 28 

Peach Culture, 25, 32 

Plant Food Result of Adding to Orchards, 59 

Planting Peach, Method of 27 

Peach Fillers in Apple Orchards, 32 

Peach Packing and Packages, 77, 83 

Problems Confronting Apple Growers, 107, no 

Principles of Cooking, 121, 126 

R 

Reiter, W. C. (Adv.), 146 

Read, G. P. (Adv.), 10 

Rockey, Keller E., 91-98 

Richley, J. W. Auto Co. (Adv.), 128, 129 

Reviving Frozen Trees, 53 

S 

Sherwin-Williams Co. (Adv.), 144 

Sulphur (Adv.) 106 

Salisbury, Mrs. Edith C, 121, 126 

Stewart, Dr. J. P., C2, 57-75 

Soy Beans as Cover Crop, 104 

Storage of Trees, 32, 52, 54 

T 

Tower for Spraving. Importance of 34 

Tilley, John S. '(Adv.), 156 

Tables— 

I. Relative Plant Food Draft of Wheat and Apples, 58 

II. Influence of Fertilizers on Yield. (Lawrence Co.), .. 60 

III. Influence of Fertilizers on Yield. (Bedford Co.), .. 62 

IV. Influence of Fertilizers on Yield. (Adams Co.), .... 65 

V. Influence of Fertilizers Elements on Apples, 66 

VI. General Fertilizer for Apple Orchards, 70 

VII. Plan of Eocal Orchard-Fertilizer Test 72 

Trees, Winter Injury to, 46, 55 

Tenny, Lloyd S., 85, 90, 98, 107- no, 116 

Tyson, C. J., 53,74,103,105 

V 

Varieties, of Apples 107 

Vetch as a Cover Crop, 104 

W 

William, J. L 98 

Western Marvland R. R., Shipments Over I47 

Well Tilled Orchard, 138 

Winter Injury to Fruit Trees, 46, 55 

Wickersham, R. A., 29, 30, 53, 74, it6 

Y 

York Chemical Co. (Adv.), 14 

York Imperial. Illustration of I34, 130, 158 

Yellows of Peach, 29,30 

Yield Influenced bv Fertilizers, 62,65 



ft 



